Sound, Space and Structures

The British-born, New York–based pianist John Escreet has released several albums since his 2008 debut, Consequences. Since 2010 he has led a trio featuring bassist John Hebert and drummer Tyshawn Sorey, and on Sound, Space, and Structures that threesome are joined by British saxophonist Evan Parker, who's been a key figure in the European free improv scene since the '60s. “Part I” is an urgent duo for Escreet and Sorey that doesn’t shy away from primal pounding. On “Part II,” Hebert plays an unaccompanied bass solo, and Evans creates soprano saxophone shapes marked by a variety of timbres. You might think you're hearing electronics on “Part IV,” but it turns out that the strange tones are produced by Escreet on prepared piano. Arco bass, assertive tenor sax, and unusual cymbal work contribute to the track’s striking sound. “Part V” comes off like a moody chamber piece for piano and soprano sax, and “Part VII” shows just how hard this band can swing. “Part IX” opens with a duet for soprano and drums. Piano and bass enter, the music intensifies before quietly fading, and the album comes to a close.