The new album from percussionist Peter Manheim seems the sort of jazz that was meant to be listened to in the summer. A tropicalia-sense of percussion and flutes anchor Early Waves. The drummer and multi-instrumentalist, best known for his work with International Anthem outfit Resavoir, really cuts loose on this one, his first full-length offering under his own name.
Flute from Alex Cummings is the glue that keeps the title cut and the percolating "Joy" moving. The poly-rhythms of the latter give Manheim space to do his thing. The drumming is intuitive and not flashy, the other players in Peter's band given space to add accents and flare to the material. Far better is "Moon is Gone", a bit of Seventies-style lite jazz that charms thanks to bass from Dan Stein, and sax work from Alex Cummings and Tim Bennett.
Peter Manheim is the kind of percussionist who's more interested in texture than showing off. The vibe on Early Waves alternates between the kind of thing that's a bit more adventurous, and material that's a good deal more accessible. The tunes are supple, the hooks spry, and the whole enterprise a cohesive journey into a set of material that shines with flashes African and South American influences peeking through the jams.
Early Waves by Peter Manheim is out now. Details below.
[Photo: Chris Weiss]