This accomplished fusion trio from Germany continues to weave its high-energy spell on its fifth outing. Formed in 1995 as a kind of punk-jazz power trio, guitarist Stefan Ivan Schäfer, electric six-string bassist Christoph V. Kaiser and drummer Thomas Lui Ludwig have developed an indelible group-think, apparent on such intricate stop-time fusion anthems as “Berns’ Rotation,” “Chick San” and the fiery “SMBH.” The players pay tribute to Jaco Pastorius-as they have on all of their previous albums-with a soulful reading of his “Three Views of a Secret,” and Kaiser showcases his own virtuosity on “Rubicon.” Intricate unison lines, crisp backbeats, tricky time signatures and beaucoup chops abound here.
Originally PublishedJazz Pistols: Superstring
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