For those unaware, time never stands still for a multifaceted creator like Rez Abbasi. His ever-evolving musical journey mirrors the changing currents of his life, from personal introspection to broader social landscapes observed from his New York home.

A 2021 Guggenheim Fellow, Rez’s 17th recording, Sound Remains, marks a return to the warmth and immediacy of the acoustic guitar with his long-standing ensemble, the Rez Abbasi Acoustic Quartet (RAAQ).

On this album — the group’s third — Rez reunites with vibraphonist Bill Ware, bassist Stephan Crump, and drummer Eric McPherson, whose collective synergy has powered their previous acclaimed albums, Natural Selection and Intents and Purposes.

This time, the lineup expands with master percussionist Hasan Bakr, who brings the deep-rooted rhythms of his Gullah-Geechee heritage, adding new layers of texture and interplay.

1. Presence [8:08]
2. You Are [8:05]
3. Questar [6:44]
4. Folk’s Dream [2:18]
5. Spin Dream [7:58]
6. Lonnie’s Lament [8:00]
7. Meet the Moment [7:27]
8. Purity [6:46]

With Rez’s sonic world having been beautifully realized on this quite brilliant new recording, the set opens on the sparkling Presence and that is followed by the consummate You Are, the resplendently tempered Questar and then we are brought forth the lushly sculpted Folk’s Dream.

With each original tune presenting a series of intricate compositional ideas, powerfully realized by the natural empathy of the group and the emotional commitment of the performances, along next is the confidently layered Spin Dream and that is itself followed by the emboldened melodies within Lonnie’s Lament, rounding out on the adventurously fun Meet the Moment, closing on the spirited, yet cultured Purity.

Musicians:
Rez Abbasi – acoustic guitars, composer, producer
Bill Ware – vibraphone
Stephan Crump – acoustic bass
Eric McPherson – drums
Hasan Bakr – percussion

Official Purchase Link