Secret Exit to Another Dimension

The Antwerp bassist Piet Verbist has played a pivotal role in the Belgian jazz scene, and this 5th album on the Origin label has him aligning with Hendrik Braeckman on guitar and Lionel Beuvens behind the drum kit for a listen full of intimate and moody originals.

"The Other Side" opens the listen with a very stylish and upbeat display of bouncy bass, intricate guitar and frisky drums populating the lively jazz climate, and "A Noble Trice" follows with a restrained and introspective appeal that uses soft drumming and warm guitar superbly.

"In Peace With Gravity" lands in the middle, and flows with much soul and grace that even hints at blues ideas, while "Bridge House" explores atmosphere with a shimmering, elegant display of cautious beauty.

"Pannonica" arrives near the end and blends fusion ideas in the trio's version of jazz, and "Minikin Milan" exits the listen sublimely, where meticulous guitar, subdued bass and well timed drumming meet at an alluring intersection.

An album that is deeply rooted in mood, Verbist and company also pay close attention to grooves and color and it makes for a charming listen of modern jazz.