Phronesis - 'Alive’

Edition Records – EDN 2021

Jasper Høiby - leader/double bass
Ivo Neame - piano
Mark Guiliana - drums

Aristotle (384BC – 322BC) introduced us to the notion of phronesis in his ‘Nicomachean Ethics’, explicating that the ‘good at which right action should aim is the good of the whole community’. This translates from the ethic to the aesthetic as judging one’s approach to action as a means of effecting change, particularly with regard to improving the quality of existence.

We should by no means confuse this with phrenesis, which word lends itself to frenetic, though we might be tempted in that direction by the vigorous execution of track 4, ‘Abraham’s New Gift’ of this excellent and entirely infectious new recording. This track exemplifies the agitated and elaborate rhythmic qualities which the trio brings to its music – all from the pen of Jasper Høiby.

The album was recorded live at two sessions in early March at the Forge Arts Venue in Camden Town. The audience reaction adds to the ambience which I can only imagine, but it appears that the trio’s stage presence must add to the vibrancy of the music’s momentum.

The tunes seem to reflect elements of a universal folk background, certainly both European and Latin sources are heard. Surprisingly, it is bass and drums that lead the way, laying down an intricately structured foundation to a delightfully inspired piano.

It’s a marvelous album and full marks should go to David Stapleton’s Edition Records for the work undertaken for our phronesis.

Reviewed by

ken cheetham
Jan. 2011