Basho Records SRCD36-2

Gwilym Simcock (p), Mike Walker (g), Steve Swallow (b) and Adam Nussbaum (d). Rec. 2010 While this group opens a new chapter in the stylistic evolution of Gwilym

Simcock by placing him alongside the rhythm team of Swallow and Nussbaum whose collective approach to the groove is perhaps more unequivocal to anything he has previously regularly worked with, it should not overshadow the contribution of bandleader Mike Walker, whose musical achievements have tended to be somewhat overlooked by a London-centric jazz scene. His playing on ‘Laugh Lines,’ his own complex yet dancing theme, is handled with easy precision and balance and his solo – as they are throughout this album – are models of logic and concision.

Like the finest sportsmen in the beautiful game, he always seems to have the time and timing to achieve his ends. Swallow and Nussbaum are exemplary throughout, a pairing that came together in the late-1970s and have taken delight in seeking out each other’s musical company ever since. They set the bar high for their two English bandmates, who respond with some of their most inspired playing on record. With tour dates stretching into 2012, there is already talk of another album, which will be eagerly anticipated. Meanwhile this downpayment makes this one of the most refreshing debut albums for a long time. Stuart Nicholson