January/February 2007

Aaron Irwin Group
Into the Light
Fresh Sound New Talent

By Forrest Dylan Bryant

Time is elastic in Aaron Irwin’s universe, expanding and contracting capriciously. As Irwin’s lithe, straightforward alto sax playing jostles with Rich Perry’s resilient tenor, Ryan Scott’s moody guitar and the mercurial rhythm section, his tunes melt like Dali’s watches, with each soloist allowed to redefine the tempo at will. Although this approach sometimes creates a feeling of meandering self-indulgence, it also generates thoughtful dialogues, crunchy little grooves and moments of great emotive power.