Misha Mullov-Abbado - Cross-Platform Interchange (2017) [Official Digital Download 24-bit/96kHz]

London bassist and composer Misha Mullov-Abbado burst onto the scene in 2015 with a debut that prompted a stream of plaudits. As the son of late great Italian conductor Claudio Abbado and Russian violinist Viktoria Mullova, there was great anticipation for the album, which not only exceeded expectations but demonstrated that Mullov-Abbado is an accomplished instrumentalist and composer in his own right. His sophomore recording Cross-Platform Interchange not only confirms his promise as an artist of real depth and vision, but demonstrates his intention to do things his own way. Playing on his love of trains as well as the reciprocity and stylistic openness within his music, the title perfectly symbolizes the interconnectivity of inspiration in his life and art.

In this chocolate box selection with thankfully no hard centres, Mullov-Abbado's opening salvo is "Shanti Bell," a blues- inflected double bass outing backed by subtle and unobtrusive percussion. This is followed by "No Strictly Dancing," the main theme of which already seems familiar. Sharing a passing resemblance to "Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ye" aka "When Johnny Comes Marching Home," its vitality and complexity develop in ensemble passages providing ample opportunity for strident trumpet soloing from James Davison. Following on from the pastoral "Waves" comes the semi-pastiche of "Gromit's Grand Outing." Semi, because there are some seriously deft arrangements amongst the historical/hysterical references. In direct contrast, "Still, Hidden Morning" is an ambient acid jazz outing that imbues positively mesmeric qualities. The smoky "Pure 100% Nunnery" again delves back into jazz's rich past courtesy of an augmented New Orleans style blues which gradually descends into mayhem before resolving once more into the catchy vamp and a corny ending. The soulful title track which benefits from luxuriant ensemble brass is followed by a lively, Latin-tinged "Hair Of The Bop," opening with a brisk double bass solo from Mullov-Abbado and ensued by a memorable ensemble melody.

Cross-Platform Interchange is a remarkably mature and accessible album, possessing both originality and variety. There's a touch of Mingusian similitude in many of the arrangements and compositions, which actually adds to their overall appeal. To follow in the footsteps of an innovative and legendary bass-playing bandleader and composer is obviously no bad thing but Mullov-Abbado already possesses his own unique musical vocabulary. Expect more surprises and delights from Mullov-Abbado in albums to come.

Tracklist:

01 - Shanti Bell
02 - No Strictly Dancing
03 - Waves
04 - Gromit's Grand Outing
05 - Still, Hidden Morning
06 - Pure 100% Nunnery
07 - Cross-Platform Interchange
08 - Hair of the Bop

Musicians:
Misha Mullov-Abbado - double bass
James Davison - trumpet
Matthew Herd - alto saxophone
Sam Rapley - tenor saxophone
Liam Dunachie - piano
Scott Chapman - drums
Elad Neeman - percussion
Nick Goodwin - acoustic guitar on "2 & 8"
Rob Luft - electric guitar on "3,5,7"
Matthew Barley - cello on "3"
Yusuf Narcin: bass trombone on "7"


Thanks to the Original customer!