released February 10, 2017

ABOUT THE ALBUM

An improvisatory trio project reflecting the definition of its Buddhist title Satori – a moment of enlightening presence and inner spaciousness away from the clutter of thought – finds British saxophonist and composer Josephine Davies collaborating with sidemen Dave Whitford (double bass) and Paul Clarvis (drums) in an immersive album of chordless originals.

Josephine Davies’ varied artistic journey includes classical saxophone quartets and line-ups, as well as key involvement in more expansive ensembles such as the Pete Hurt Orchestra and as resident tenorist and composer with the London Jazz Orchestra. But returning to a sound world invoked by the immediate solo-horn character of John Coltrane and founded on an absorbing live debut performance at London’s Iklectik creative space, this partnership focuses primarily on intuitive, extended, three-way responses to Davies’ intentionally minimal writing, based around key centers, rather than prescriptive harmonic sequences.

The resultant, flowing chemistry between these exponents of in-the-moment music making becomes fascinating to explore, as explained by Josephine: “Dave and Paul make things their own very quickly – their creativity and spontaneity always bring something new, and the trio is able to move forward with great ease. So there’s a real draw to this sense of space; having the freedom to explore ideas, without a harmony instrument, not knowing where they will lead.” And the saxophonist’s own melodic wellspring produces the most unfettered, often intoxicating expressions of slow-burning lyricism and sonorous exuberance.

Haunting, syringeal soprano sax weaves and loops around the restless percussiveness of bass and drums in ‘Insomnia’ – and, typically, instead of observing standard solo calls, the group dynamics organically shift to accentuate specific instrumental phrases and ideas. The snappy asymmetrical rhythm of ‘Crisp Otter’ (say it, and the reference to the US saxman, and his Underground Band, becomes evident) grooves deliciously to Davies’ aqueous tenor; and rambunctious, technically-challenging ‘The Yips’ pervades the air with celebratory, South African-style fervor.

Three pieces originally conceived as a segued medley proceed with ‘Something Small’ – a chirpy, almost Bernsteinesque theme which is deconstructed with aplomb before its seemingly reluctant recapitulation. Following, and named after George Merryweather’s bizarre 19th Century leech barometer, the fast-swinging turmoil of ‘The Tempest Prognosticator’ is boisterously defined by Clarvis and Whitford at their effusive best; while darkly-writhing ‘Snakes’ (one of four tracks recorded before audience) stretches out across almost ten minutes, showcasing Davies’ broad, inventive palette. The joyfully rhythmic swagger of ‘Paradoxy’, with firm echoes of Sonny Rollins, appears in two different takes – a nod to classic jazz albums of the ‘50s and ‘60s – both turning lively individual spotlights on each player.

As a recording to experience again and again, Satori also emphasizes the inherent dynamics and energy present in live music – the vital lifeblood of any improvising musician. And this particular environment is something in which Josephine Davies foresees plenty of future mileage: “I imagined that this trio, with Dave and Paul, would be playful, energetic, exciting; and even had the sound in my head. But the outcome is even better – so inspiring, and so much fun.”

PRESS HIGHLIGHTS

"Full of ideas, vision, and joyful improvisation​... ​A delightful journey of adventure and discovery​... A recording to experience again and again."
★★★★​ ​UK Vibe​

"A mischievous sense of fun is never far from the surface."
Bebop Spoken Here

"A truly gifted and imaginative saxophonist, Davies undoubtedly possesses the art of the improviser and has produced an album of exuberant lyricism and consistently engaging tunes."
All About Jazz

"Davies plays fluently throughout, as do her accomplished associates... This new CD is a winner."
Bebop Spoken Here

A strong statement from Josephine Davies as she takes on the challenge of the saxophone trio format and succeeds brilliantly."
★★★★ The Jazz Mann

"Consistently inventive and witty... Testament to Davies' lyrical flow and to her collaborators ability to go with it."
Jazzwise Magazine

“‘Satori’ has a cool, detached poise to it’s serpentine melodic explorations... A fine album.”
Jazz Views

“Strongly supported by Dave Whitford and Paul Clarvis as attentive and inventive accomplices, she [Davies} expresses lively and generous jazz.”
Culture Jazz

"Innovative, eclectic and energetic... A splendid album."
Radio REC

​"​The energy and the freedom of this original record recorded​ live are joyful​... Highly recommended."
​Culture Jazz​

"The fluent chemistry between these exponents of in-the-moment music making is fascinating to explore."
Medien Info

"Full of tension, energy and exuberance... An album to enjoy repeatedly."
Digitale Jazz Zeitung

"'Satori' harnesses the dynamics and energy inherent in live music."
Rhein Main Magazine

"Davies takes great advantage of the harmonic and rhythmic freedom opened up by this saxophone/bass/drum configuration."
Concerto Magazine

"Bitter-sweet with bristling grooves... A promising debut."
Citizen Jazz

“Radiates calm yet somehow suffused with energy.”
Der Hörspiegel

“Wild up-tempo parts enhance the stylistic and highlight the wit of this trio.”
Musikreviews Magazine

"It's the attention to detail that stands out on this album... Dynamic and full of energy.
Melodiva