A collaboration between vibraphonist
Ben Thomas (already an established artist with Origin Records), pianist Alex Chadsey, and trombonist Chris Stover,
Q.E.D. is seemingly an effort at exploratory composition. The trio takes turns presenting compositions throughout
Yet What Is Any Ocean..., showcasing different elements of the bandmembers' performance abilities as well as different elements of their musical inspirations.
Thomas' "Put the Ball in the Box" could easily double as an old
Chick Corea composition, while his "Tangent 5" mimics some of
Piazzolla's nuevo tango milongas (complete with
Thomas switching from vibes to bandoneon). Chadsey's "Soft Lights" adds a Cuban touch, while his "Poza Azul" returns to
Piazzolla elements. Stover's "Waltz" provides a more open canvas for exploration on each instrument in turn. Throughout the proceedings, the trio holds a strong line of interplay, each musician showcasing the timbres of his own instrument as its own showcase, but intertwining melodies just enough to keep a forceful sound as a full trio. It's an outstanding album with some interesting compositions and performances alike. ~ Adam Greenberg