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Tyshawn Sorey: Mesmerism (Pi)

2. Tyshawn Sorey Trio Mesmerism (Yeros7)

What happens when a musician renowned for his composing decides to do a “standards” album? When that musician is drummer Tyshawn Sorey, you get a captivating blend of graceful revelry and subtly conceptual improvisation. Sorey’s choices of material (from “Autumn Leaves” to Muhal Richard Abrams, Paul Motian, and Horace Silver) and cohorts (pianist Aaron Diehl, bassist Matt Brewer) reveal clues as to how he stays alert amid deep relaxation. We have no choice but to follow suit. BRITT ROBSON