Linda Oh Trio: Entry

An accomplished bassist-composer and fearless improviser on the New York scene, newcomer Linda Oh has two open-minded and highly skilled musical partners on her leader debut: adventurous trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire and drummer Obed Calvaire, a marvel on the kit. The stripped-down trio makes a strong impression from the jump on “Morning Sunset” and continues the provocative three-way conversation on the dark-hued “Patterns” and the smolderingly intense “Numero Uno,” which opens with a mesmerizing overdubbed trumpet choir by Akinmusire.

The music throughout this provocative set flows with an internal logic and energy of its own, like the entrancing 12/8 vehicle “Fourth Limb,” the startling “Gunners,” the bop-influenced romp “201” (catch her extrapolation on Miles Davis’ “Solar” during her extended solo) and the calming fugue “Before the Music.” The 25-year-old Chinese-Malaysian woman raised in Australia is emerging as a formidable talent.

Originally Published November 1, 2009