Chance

Veteran Portland Bassist and composer David Friesen is a vital part of the Pacific Northwest jazz scene, and has recorded with the disparate likes of Stan Getz and Sam Rivers, Woody Shaw and Mal Waldron. Now, at age 72, he's released a two-disc set of original music, captured live with his Circle 3 Trio in performances in Oregon and Arizona, and in a studio session in Germany. Where the Light Falls, as its title suggests, presents a selection of Friesen's moody, evocative compositions, as expertly interpreted by the bassist, pianist Greg Goebel, drummer Charlie Doggett and, on the tracks recorded in Tempe, guitarist Larry Koonse. The leader's nimble pizzicato and lush tone anchor each piece, and his soloing is emotive and articulate. Still, these are ensemble works, and the group's sensitivity honors Friesen's melodies throughout. Goebel and Doggett prove excellent companions, each listening intently and conversing eloquently. As can be heard on "Playground," the opening tune and our selection, Koonse fits in easily with the trio. His deft, dancing solo captures the playful spirit of the song, as does Friesen's, with each instrumentalist skipping merrily atop the rhythmic asphalt.