Before switching record labels, saxophonist Robson made a couple of cutting edge trio albums for the Rufus label. This is the second, and displays a remarkable maturation of style. With engaging melodies throughout mixed with a couple of up-tempo numbers, the Steve Elphick/Hamish Stuart rhythm section is outstanding in support.
IshIsh Waiting for It 2001 [Newmarket]
Led by drummer Ronny Ferella, the third album from Melbourne ensemble IshIsh finds the group in dynamic form. Its distinctive three horns, double-bass and drums lineup offers a postbop sound that has been favourably compared to Gil Evans' best. Although a tight knit unit, it is hard not to notice saxophonist Julien Wilson's contributions.
Out Of This World Baecastuff 2001 [Naxos]
Baecastuff's international debut finds the band somewhere in between the 80s sound of Galapagos Duck and the more adventurous OzJazz styles that have emerged in recent times. Matt McMahon's Fender Rhodes electric piano provides distinction, although it is hard not to mention bassist Alex Hewetson's contributions.
East St. Kilda Toodleoo Allan Browne's New Rascals 2001 [Jazzhead]
With his health failing OzJazz drumming legend Allan Browne played every beat as if it was his last. Here a tight outfit runs the gamut from trad to bop to Ornette Coleman - and it works. The five classic compositions are the perfect complement to the six originals. Possibly Browne's final throw of the trad dice and deserves to be remembered.
Mikrokosmos - The Bartók Project Andrea Keller 2002 [ABC Jazz]
Bartók's Mikrokosmos compositions were written to teach his son the piano. Top-flight pianist Andrea Keller proves they are also the perfect vehicle for an improvisational jazz ensemble. In her younger years Keller aimed for a career in classical music before discovering jazz at age 14. Here we get the best of both worlds.
WayBack The World According to James 2002 [Heads Up]
The 'James' in question is James Greening - a noted Sydney OzJazz trombonist. Greenings' creative credentials are confirmed by his work with The catholics, Ten Part Invention, Wanderlust and The Umbrellas. Given this background, it is no surprise that WayBack represents an explosion of ideas with some challenging edges.
Live Mike Nock's BigSmallBand 2003 [ABC Jazz]
Veteran OzJazz keyboardist who has dabbled in everything from fusion to the ECM sound. Here a lively 10-piece outfit work their way through eight original compositions by a variety of notable modern jazz artists. A unique sound results from the use of tuba, trombone, flute, saxes, trumpet and clarinets. Inventive OzJazz worthy of its notoriety.
Mutations Paul Williamson Quartet 2003 [Newmarket]
Melbourne trumpeter Paul Williamson changes direction whilst maintaining an adventurously improvisational vein with this, his third CD. The 12 originals here are billed as a mix of European and Nordic influences with contemporary jazz. As an added bonus also on board is OzJazz shining light, pianist Andrea Keller.
