Graham Reid | | <1 min read
Spike Driver's Blues
This is an unexpected alt.folk-cum-jazz album from New York's edgy 577 Records which most often delivers challenging and/or beautiful free jazz.
Singer/guitarist Purtill is joined by pianist Genovese and bassist Conly for his aching socio-political Sweet Liberty, Dylan's Simple Twist of Fate and Mississippi John Hurt's Spike Driver's Blues, among other pieces distinguished by his weathered bluesy voice, the swirling currents of piano and anchoring bass.
This is very much avant-folk as heard in a Brooklyn jazz club where the singer stretches the lines with rare ease and Genovese responds to lyrics with sometimes fulsome flourishes. Conly brings some evocative arco playing to the Dylan, a rendition which might not appeal to hardcore Bob followers but is actually quite a grower.
By existing between both folk and improvised music Simple Twist might not entirely satisfy each school, but the energetic piano on the Hurt piece will certainly appeal to those with a taste for free playing. It's turbulent stuff which captures the spiritual agony of the lyrics.
Certainly not for everyone, but if you are prepared to have your preconceptions challenged or just want to hear something very different then this trio is your go-to listening experience.
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You can hear and buy this album at bandcamp here.
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