WHEE3Trio: In the Wheelhouse

A very unique mashing of jazz. Afro-Latin and West African ideas, the drummer Andy Wheelock brings along Walter Gorra, Gonzalo Teppa and Gilad Hekselman for these 10 worldly tunes.

The rhythmic opening of "Empire" makes an impression thanks to Wheelocks' frisky drums and Heskelman's radiant guitar, and "Well Luck Indeed" follows with Teppa's lively bass lines amid soft grooves and much warmth.

The middle track belongs to "Kewo", where animated percussion adds to the richness of the album's best, while "Blossom" moves in waves of soothing, nearly therapeutic ideas that you can't help but enjoy.

"I'm Not Afraid" and "In The Wheelhouse" exit the record. The former benefits much from dreamy guitar and light ambience, and the latter showcases Gorra's finger acrobatics on keys for the timeless jazz appeal.

A truly atypical effort that will resonate worldwide, Wheelock and his crew incorporate timbre flashes, dance floor moments and even pop bouts for this infectious and memorable listen.