The signature-lyricism and melancholy of Colin Vallon’s compositions as well as his trio’s understated three-way interaction remain magically intact on Samares.

Yet, much has evolved in the sound of the Swiss pianist’s group since their last record for ECM, 2017’s Danse, among other things Vallon’s freshly introduced use of electronics to modulate his instrument’s pitch.

Dynamic extremes are explored and tuneful hooks – some melody -, some harmony -, others beat-based – patiently assembled, often completed in mesmerizing fashion.

Where subtle rhythmic twists and harmonic progressions constructed around piano triads recall cutting-edge inspirations from the world of art-rock, other expositions reveal a tight-knit jazz trio elaborating a chamber sound focused on close listening and reacting.

1. Racine (Root) [3:25]
2. Mars [6:46]
3. Lou [5:38]
4. Ronce (bramble or blackberry) [4:06]
5. Étincelle [6:16]
6. Timo [4:45]
7. Samares [3:39]
8. Souche [3:33]
9. Brin (a twig or blade of grass) [5:03]

Recorded at Lugano’s Auditorio Stelio Molo in 2023, and produced by Manfred Eicher, the album opens on the veritably crystalline, introspective Racine and the ornately supreme Mars, and then we get the gently cinematic Lou, a forthright fervency that drives Ronce and the demure, upright bass-led Étincelle.

With the French “Samares” referring to the samara fruit that, visually a blend between a seed and a leaf, is characterized by its wing-like flaps), we continue onward with the structured ambience of Timo (with both this track and the aforementioned Lou both named after Vallon’s children) and the free flowing, melodious majesties sewn within the rubato-flow of the titular Samares, and they are in turn backed seamlessly by the shimmeringly emboldened Souche, the recording closing on the demurely dulcet elegance of Brin.

Official Purchase Link

www.colinvallon.com