Stone House: Likewise

It’s his record label and he can do whatever he wants with it. Evidently, that means that if you record for Riti, you might get Joe Morris, the well-known free-jazz guitarist, but you should probably expect Joe Morris, the little-known bassist. Morris continues his bass explorations with Likewise, a recording by Stone House-a collective trio also featuring Rob Brown on alto and flute and drummer Luther Gray. Far from a vanity project, this is deft, sophisticated free improvisation, and one of an increasing number of notable releases on Riti. Brown, who quietly turns out more and more impressive contributions with every new recording it seems, leads the way with deliberate, soulful statements delivered with utter conviction. He and Morris have been cultivating a musical relationship for some time, and Morris finds plenty of ways to continue their sensitive interaction on his second instrument. There are times on Likewise where the two of them render Gray more or less irrelevant, and Gray, to his credit, politely steps aside.

Originally Published March 1, 2004