Michael Formanek Drome Trio

Making the most of a new trio configuration, New York bassist Michael Formanek calls on local drummer Vinnie Sperrazza and Montrealer-in-Manhattan Chet Doxas playing tenor/soprano saxophones and clarinet, to skillfully interpret four of his extended compositions. Avoiding sameness is the result of canny arrangements by Formanek, who has written and performed in many sized ensembles over the years/ Each track features one or another of Doxas’ reeds.
For example “Never Odd” initially contrasts speedy clarinet trills with thickened double bass thumps. then as the pliable theme vibrates with additional energy from sul tasto string buzzes and cymbal vibrations, tenor saxophone scoops and flattement maintain the triple balance. Recurring clarinet flutters return to introduce a rhythm section-driven swing groove which defines the tune’s last section.

Furthermore while the fluid rhythm which characterizes both versions of “Tattarrattat” may be projected using Sperrazza’s popping press rolls and the bassist’s guitar-like strums, it’s the soprano saxophonist’s flutter tongued twists, sometimes advanced a capella, that fully personify the tunes. With a range that encompasses sweetened glissandi, slurping vibrations and fragmented split tones, Doxas’ dedicated reed individualism helps make the compositions stand out. These and others evolve linearly and confirm Formanek’s high quality musical concepts.

Although each Drome Trio member gets some solo space on this, its fine first disc, perhaps next time out more, shorter tracks could create distinctive showpieces for each player.

–For The Whole Note March/April 2022