Terri Lyne Carrington's “Structure” is a masterclass in modern fusion that'll have you grooving from start to finish. Recorded back in 2003 at Castle Oaks Studio, this gem was released the following year by German label ACT Music, setting the stage for an unforgettable musical journey.
Let's talk about the lineup first. Carrington leads the charge on drums and percussion, setting the rhythm with finesse and flair. She's joined by a stellar cast of musicians: Adam Rogers on both acoustic and electric guitar, Jimmy Haslip holding down the fort on bass, and the inimitable Greg Osby tearing it up on alto sax.
From the get-go, “Structure” captivates with its diverse range of sounds and styles. Carrington's own composition, “Mindful Intent,” kicks things off with a contemplative vibe that showcases the group's cerebral approach to music-making. Then there's Osby's “Black Halo,” a brooding piece that will send shivers down your spine with its atmospheric mood.
But it's not all serious business. Carrington shifts gears on Joni Mitchell's “Ethiopia,” revealing her vocal prowess with a heartfelt rendition of the politically charged lyrics. Rogers brings the heat with “The Invisible,” a high-energy track that's as urgent as it is intricate. And Haslip's “Spiral” offers a lyrical respite, highlighting the composer's knack for crafting melodic lines.
The album's title may suggest rigidity, but “Structure” is anything but constrained. Tracks like Osby's “Facets Squared” and Rogers' “Columbus, Ohio” push the boundaries of traditional Jazz, blending elements of funk, fusion, and even a touch of ECM-inspired experimentation. The result? A heady concoction that's both physically and mentally stimulating, as Russ Musto of All About Jazz aptly put it.
And let's not forget the collective effort at play here. Each musician brings their A-game to the table, playing off each other with seamless precision. Whether it's the wicked riffs and grooves or the marvelous unison sections, there's a sense of camaraderie that permeates every track.
In the end, “Structure” is a testament to the power of collaboration and creative exploration. It's a reminder that Jazz is not confined to the past, but is alive and thriving in the hands of visionaries like Carrington and her bandmates. So if you're a fan of creative funk/jazz, do yourself a favor and dive into this musical odyssey. You won't be disappointed.
“You have to really go through a journey of really connecting to other people’s voices before you can find your own. You have to be mentored and introduced to other people’s paths, and then you can choose to do what you want.”
— Terri Lyne Carrington