Bift by Bift

16 Jun

Written by Michael Casano
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The trio, in jazz, is always an interesting dynamic because there is nowhere to hide. In the case of Bift, Matt Glassmeyer, Sean Moran, and Jason Wildman are not only great musicians, but are a great trio of jazz musicians. Future Jazz might become the new buzzword, as guys like these are the future of jazz. With the ability to slip comfortably in and out of traditional jazz structures, then blast into an improvisational mode that incorporates the experimental and the electronic, the music tends to be exciting and unpredictable. As much of contemporary jazz has become more of a commercial venture, the future of jazz seems concerned with finding new modes of expression, widening the palette, and constructing new textures. Wildman the drummer is solid throughout, and Moran’s guitar takes on the persona of a vocalist, with the occasional rock riff thrown about for good fun and measure. Glassmeyer uses his invented buzzaphone, sampler, saxophone, and an assortment of sounds to create an atmosphere of mystery and dreams. From where I am sitting, the future of jazz looks mighty promising.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Bift
CD Title: Bift
Genre: Free Jazz / Avante Garde
Year Released: 2004
Record Label: NCM East Records
Tracks: Criminal, Same girl, Police the, Petit nina in room I, Petit nina in room II, Chicken feet, Frog mouth, Clockwise from, Papa Papa pa pa, Pardon
Musicians: Sean Moran (guitar), Jason Wildman (drums), Matt Glassmeyer (saxophone, buzzaphone, samplers, miscellaneous sounds)
Label Website: http://www.ncmeast.com
Rating: Four Stars