The trio Play Time crank out infectious jazz and new music on their new record. The three-piece group features players who've been recording with some impressive names, and Magic Object is impressive on its own terms, but certainly interesting for anyone who's heard anything these musicians have been on before.
Play Time is percussionist Booker Stardrum, saxophonist Will Epstein, and synth player Ben Vida. Stardrum is the drummer in SML, a group who just dropped a fine live set. There's an undercurrent to opener "Open the Door, Joey" which seems similar to some SML stuff, while the superb "Q & A" works up a circular hook that's almost like something Mdou Moctar would catch fire around. This is robust, sinewy stuff here. "Wanderers", a real highlight of the set, finds Stardrum laying down a beat with traces of Indian influence in it, while the synth from Vida and sax from Epstein jostle atop the rhythm. The effect is borderline hypnotic, but quietly so.
Play Time really know how to work a groove. Check out the title cut here for proof of that. And while that one reveals a little Jon Hassell influence, the more obviously fiery "Public Broadcast" shows that jazz is on the offering here on Magic Object too, and not just rhythmic workouts. Highly recommended.
Magic Object by Play Time is out on Friday. Details below.
[Photo: Linnéa Gad]