By Esther Callens
Rarely a musical compilation comes along with exceptional tunes that go so far and above the norm that it should be in a class by itself. This is the best way to describe Prairie Modern. It is the latest offering from the threesome that goes by the name of Hutchinson Andrew Trio (HAT). With a lineup of 13 original tracks, Prairie Modern gives HAT the international attention these Canadian superstars deserve.
HAT is comprised of Western Canadian Award nominated bassist Kodi Hutchinson, CBC Galaxie Rising Star pianist Chris Andrew and Downbeat award winning drummer Karl Schwonik. For the past eight years HAT has been carving quite a niche for themselves in their country’s jazz scene. Their music is representative to the Prairies and Rocky Mountains expressing the beauty and tranquility of their home. HAT incorporates elements of modern swing, Latin, simple and complex beats and acoustic jazz.
The title track has a beautiful mid-tempo that really expresses what HAT is all about. It alone establishes that these fellows are adamant about their music and have the expertise to prove it. “The Fog” features an unusual, challenging arrangement that HAT pulls off very well. It is an excellent exception to HAT’s norm.
Special Guest includes Grammy-nominated saxophonist Donny McCaslin and percussionist Rogério Boccato. McCaslin takes center stage on “The Realm” (part I and II). He is proven to be an awesome talent and he brings a lot of depth to the pieces. He and Boccato give “Ponderado” (and intro) a wonderful essence with percussion and soprano dancing with each other. The trio gives a compelling performance on “Beautiful Thorn” that is quite emotional. It is a superb masterpiece.
HAT is a fantastic trio and they are the 2013 winner of the TD Grand Jazz Award – Montreal International Jazz Festival. With albums such as this, numerous accolades are in their future.
Album listing: Mountain Rose; The Fog; Waltz for Clay; The Realm-part I; The Realm-part II; Wilds; Ponderado Intro; Ponderado; Prairie Wind; What Next; Mintaka; Beautiful Thorn; Essence of Peace Beauty & Life.
Album Personnel: Kodi Hutchinson-bass; Chris Andrew-piano; Karl Schwonik-drums; Donny McCaslin-saxophone 1,3,4,5,8,10; Rogério Boccato-percussion 7,8,11.
