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REUBEN BRADLEY: Resonator

By his own admission, jazz drummer Reuben Bradley was in need of some ‘serious inspiration’ musically when he set off to study in New York in 2007. There he had a series of lessons with master drummer Barry Altschul that would change his musical landscape forever. Returning to Wellington Bradley set about composing material for ‘Resonator’. Diverse and confident, this is an album that is as rich in energy as it is in musical styles, Bradley having created an eclectic mix of improvisations and grooves. From the inviting opener, the acoustic straight ahead Exposition, it’s apparent that this is a collaboration between some fine musicians. Joining Bradley here is the highly talented Roger Manins playing some stirling tenor sax throughout, Miles Crayford on piano, Rhodes and synth and Mostyn Cole on bass and samples. Also guesting on the album are vocalist Kirsten Te Rito, James Illingworth (synth) and Little Bushman’s Tom Callwood on double-bass. Bradley’s compositions rise and fall with rhythmic textures that intrigue and sometimes surprise. Cole’s inventive playing on the funky crossover Cassandra’s Prophecy, the wistful ballad Search in Progress and the colourful multi-layered OK Monitor are just some of the joys to be found on this tastefully packaged and well produced Rattle Jazz album of eight beautifully crafted compositions. Recorded by Richard Caigo and mixed/mastered by Mike Gibson it is highly recommended.

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