Neon Quartet - 'Catch Me’

Edition Records – EDN 1024

Neon was originally a Stan Sulzmann trio with marimba and vibes player Jim Hart and pianist Gwilym Simcock. The group is recreated as a quartet with Tim Giles added on drums. Kit Downes replaces Gwilym at the keys and Jim stays put. Compositions are spread fairly evenly between all except the drummer. What we have here is probably some of the best British jazz available. Stan Sulzmann’s towering tenor, rich textures woven by Downes and Hart and the rolling percussion of Tim Giles produce a marvellous dialogue of considerable vigour and enthralling splendour.

The title track “Catch Me” paints a beautiful mural from a blend of iridescent vibes and fluffy saxophone laid over an empathetic ambience drawn from percussion and piano. This is just one example of the fine interaction between the musicians, both exceptional and scintillating. There is so much going on that impresses, especially perhaps the whole sound stage, generated by the synthesis of harmony, cadence and texture. It always sparkles.

No matter, though, how pretty or even delicate any part of this music may appear, it is never insubstantial or feeble. It is definitely trim and its performance always taut and decisive. This music is both entertaining and thoroughly absorbing and a real balm from Gilead, but serious enough in its force and its splendour to make you quiver. Don't miss it.

Reviewed by

ken cheetham
Jan. 2011