Description
This recording is special for two reasons. First, it highlights jazz talent from France; secondly, it features a bona fide group, not a mishmash of all-stars. Indeed, Prysm–pianist Pierre de Bethmann, Christophe Wallemme, and drummer-percussionist Benjamin Henocq–are a unit that creates, molds, and deconstructs harmony, rhythm, and melody in a way that only a group of individuals that has navigated the improvisational minefields together on a consistent basis can pull off. The trio plays with a ’60s neoclassic vibe, especially on the pedal-pointed opener “The Way,” the melodic mazes of “The Stone Cutter,” and the Afro-tinged “Secret World” and “Extension.” Wallemme’s Ron Carter-grooved bass lines walk on “Upside Down” and the midtempoed “False Roots,” while “Hope” flies with an optimistic waltz. De Bethmann’s Herbie Hancock-Chick Corea stylings chant on the “Tao of Chloe.” –Eugene Holley Jr.
