Thomas Chapin Sky Pieceby George Lane, gmn.com

Alto saxophonist/flautist Thomas Chapin’s Trio created music that proved that the rich musical elements of 60’s jazz could be extended into the 90’s without merely being nostalgic mimicry. His music is deeply rooted in the exploration and urgency that characterized that period, yet it is clearly fresh, contemporary and unquestionably NEW.

Although Thomas is no longer with us, we are fortunate to have a plethora of recorded delights, of which Sky Piece is the final studio recording of this spectacular trio (and more fortunately I understand that there are a good deal of high quality unissued live recordings in his estate).

Recorded in 1996, six years into the trio’s 7-year span, this fantastic CD also provides indisputable evidence to the value of maintaining a consistent ensemble. Bassist Mario Pavone and percussionist Michael Sarin, both extraordinary musicians on their own, join with Thomas to create a synergy that can only come through a mutual dedication of commitment, passion and virtuosity combined with the time necessary to allow the ensemble to develop its own personality and character.

We are all blessed that these three superb artists made that commitment. As is always the case, “rhythm” instruments seem subordinate to the lead voice, especially one as powerful as Thomas. But the experienced listener knows how much equality exists, and it’s in evidence here throughout.

All that aside, however, Thomas Chapin is a great musician, who will, I believe, achieve only more respect and recognition as time goes on, much like Eric Dolphy, who also left us at his creative apex. But he is also a product of his time, influenced by many factors and cultures. His flute playing invokes Japanese shakuhachi, Navajo flute, Pygmy whistle, etc. on the beautiful, exotic “Sky Piece,” “Essaovira,” and “Just Now,” along with Roland Kirk and Sam Rivers on the up-tempo “Don’t Mind If I Do.” His alto simply explodes, whether swinging mightily or squawking percussively, every solo smokes. Incredible original compositions, especially “Alphaville,” his evocative tribute to Godard, and a great version of Monk’s “Ask Me Now” that joyously explore the tune’s bluesy raunchiness are even more reasons to grab this monstrous CD.

George Lane