
Josh Rawlings Trio
Swell
Self-released
Emerging from the improvisational depths of the Green Leaf, the Josh Rawlings Trio, featuring Adam Kessler on drums and Nate Omdal on upright bass, recently released their new album Swell. Keyboardist Rawlings’ playful compositions, creative arrangements, and curatorial skills provide a light-hearted sonosphere packed with talented guests artists.
The secret sauce of the trio is perhaps their ability to steadily transition in and out of multi-genre inspired grooves resulting in layers of subtle sonic variation. Their song selection and pacing make Swell one of the most listenable records I’ve heard this year.
In a nod to West Coast cool jazz legend, Rawlings sings original lyrics to the classic Paul Desmond “Take Five.” His compositions “Alone” and “Seatown Swing” feature Gabriel Burbano on the trumpet providing his characteristically soulful, even wistful touch. Isabella Du Graf’s sweet coos are ear candy in the upbeat composition “You Are The Reason,” while Jessie Sawyers’ rhythmic dancing cruises forward on “Wave.” Rawlings also reveals a more personal side singing together with his wife Emily in a sentimental ode to his daughter “Freja.”
Swell also features several popular songs including Stevie Wonder’s “Pastime Paradise,” Weezer’s “Undone” and “Say It Ain’t So,” and a Seattle favorite, Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Rawlings delivers his cool and dark textures for these covers a la Ethan Iverson (The Bad Plus).
–Edan Krolewicz