The Near Jazz Experience – Tritone
The Near Jazz Experience’s Tritone is an adventurous audio trip that combines future free jazz with a fair tribute to the Canterbury scene’s experimental philosophy. This record is anything but predictable, drawing inspiration from pioneers like Soft Machine and Gong, as well as Can’s krautrock openness and Frank Zappa’s sarcastic complexity. The album vibrates with restless energy while maintaining an aura of cinematic unity. The tracks play out like scenes from a 1970s art-house thriller, with musical orchestrations that are equally intriguing, funky, and tense. The collaboration between sax, bass, and drums is improvised, resulting in “structured” chaos that rewards paying close attention. “Tuba Cop” stands out for its Miles Davis-inspired mood and tempo. Its nostalgic beat is mixed with an attitude that makes it surprisingly danceable, bridging the gap between intellectual jazz and physical movement. Throughout Tritone, The Near Jazz Experience creates a sound that is classic and experimental. It’s a record that doesn’t just explore jazz fusion roots, but reawakens them with new force, making it a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and experimental instrumental music.
Photo Credit: The Near Jazz Experience – photo courtesy of NJE
