TRI4TH - TRI4TH AHEAD

The simple and bold graphics of the album jacket is like a modern take on the classic album covers of the Blue Note era and likewise the music on TRI4TH's second album sees the band taking influence from golden era jazz to produce a new sound for a new generation. Playing in a classic quintet format, TRI4TH have built up a solid fanbase through captivating live performances and a collection of catchy original tunes.

This second set, once again produced by Tatsuo Sunaga, sees the band further developing their sound from their self-titled debut. Sunlight Yellow Over Drive is the uplifting uptempo opener, with its catchy refrain getting the album off to a great start. Things continue in a similar vein with the lead track Try Ahead with a sound that hits the middle ground between Soil & "Pimp" Sessions and Quasimode just perfectly.

After this lively opening, the album settles into a more swinging mood with numbers such as Night Hawks and the wonderful mid-tempo dancer Rumble Fish, which is a real grower as well as the complex groove of Seven. New Life Standard is a mellower number with a wonderful main hook which has something of a spiritual feel to it.

There are also one or two slower numbers on offer with Circle seeing Junnosuke Fujita leading the tune with some fine soprano sax, but the tempo picks up again for the closing pair of tunes, Dance 'Em All and Burn, Juyoga, Burn.

TRI4TH Ahead is a fine album that sees building on the potential shown on their debut. Recommended listening.

Originally posted @ Tokyo Jazz Notes HERE