In the pianoless trio, saxophonist
Michaël Attias dominates the music. His playing is both lyrical and explorative. While technically avant-garde,
Attias does not neglect melodic development, close interplay with his sidemen, and swinging in his own fashion. His originals contain their share of variety, particularly in setting moods, and his playing clearly inspires that of bassist
John Hebert and drummer
Satoshi Takeishi, and vice versa. Not an easy listening date,
Renku is also not difficult to digest since the improvising has its own logic. Well worth exploring by modern jazz listeners. ~ Scott Yanow