Ray, Scot
Cryptogramophone, 2004, CD
Instrument: Trombone
Issue: 10.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Fusion
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Trombonist Ray is joined by Jeff Gauthier (electric violin), Nils Cline (g), Steuart Liebig (b) and Alex Cline (d). As the title suggests, this project is chemical fusion. The opener, “Three Quarks” is rather open and abstract but things tighten up as they get to track #4, “In Cleveland”, more of a rock fusion cut. “Trouble with Sugar” has a haunting, mysterious feel that evolves over 13+ minutes with some nice moves from each of the players. The title track starts with Scott soloing, a la Fred Wesley, over a funky rhythm and it evolves into a cool syncopated jam. They conclude with “Bitteroot”, a relaxer. Overall, this is more than a jam session, it is very creative and on the edge.
