(Jazzhead)
THIS trio debut lives up to its big-name endorsements. In the Sonny Rollins tradition, teaming saxophone with double bass and drums, Exordium (opening of a discourse) lives up to plaudits from Bernie McGann, Dale Barlow and Scott Tinkler. It’s no surprise that Paul Grabowsky — also an exponent of restless, convention-breaking jazz that can be tough and so gentle — adds his praise.
Brisbane bassist Eugene Romaniuk and Felix Bloxom on drums let Hurren, on tenor and soprano sax, hog the limelight on most of his original compositions. Gutsy and laid-back tracks are all engaging.
The short Dector Harvotza is alive and taut, Propa Monkey vivacious and energetic. Bass and drums play off Hurren’s sax in the at-times frantic Birthday Suit, but the mood is intricate, melodic and wistful in Katie’s Song. The final track, After winds into a twisting big sound that is a fitting wrap to this opening discourse.
In short: Trio fires up for an opening salvo that hits the target.
ROGER MITCHELL
Review originally published in Sunday Herald Sun
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