One gives us a strong set of originals, a tune by George Schuller and a couple of American Songbook and jazz standards. Throughout there is attention to song structure, including the changes underpinning where applicable, but a freewheeling freedom that also places the music comfortably in the avant camp at times.
Cameron's excellent bass work forms the rock-solid core around which everything turns. He can spell out the changes in a masterful way, he can solo with real authority, and take the free-oriented segments under his wing with creative thrust, Gerald's drumming can swing fabulously and/or open the freedom feel up with a control and flourish that makes him indispensable to the whole.
Jason springs forth on One as a fully mature tenor-soprano man of true stature. If at times I might feel this trio encompasses the roots of the pianoless trio from the pioneering Sonny Rollins units through to the Sam Rivers trios at their best, it is because Rigby has a command over the saxophone in its historical sweep and forges a language of his own in the best traditions of a rooted launch upwards. And it also strongly goes into a new way of old with the beauty of the Cameron-Cleaver rhythm team.
With a few listens you come away with the feeling that THIS is what great jazz is all about. There is a fluency and mastery that is timeless. I get the feeling I had listening to early Chico Freeman albums--that here is a player destined for great things.
I think I'll leave it at that for now. Listen to this music, please. We are in good hands with Jason Rigby. He doubtless has a role to play in the future of this music. I am heartened.
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