The Behemoth

Classic british contemporary jazz. Fantastic

An interesting, thoughtful project both for Phronesis and for Julian.

By now most jazz aficionados know and applaud Phronesis, a three-piece jazz band from London. The name of the band (or trio) ‘Phronesis means a type of wisdom or intelligence. It is more specifically a type of wisdom relevant to practical things, requiring an ability to discern how or why to act virtuously and encourage practical virtue, excellence of character, in others. In other words, Mindfulness.For those who have yet to experience this unique ensemble, Phronesis are a three-piece jazz band formed by Danish bass player Jasper Høiby in 2005. The piano trio is completed by British pianist Ivo Neame and Swedish drummer Anton Eger. The band has toured internationally, performing at New York's Jazz Standard, Montreal Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and Brecon Jazz Festival among others. In 2013, Phronesis headlined at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall. This Scandinavian/British jazz trio Phronesis have the ability to excite, inspire and move people in a way that few bands are able to do.In this newest collection – BEHEMOTH - the ensemble is Ivo Neame – piano, Anton Eger – drums, Jasper Høiby – bass and the Frankfurt Radio Big Band conducted by Julian Arguelles. Consisting of ten new arrangements of compositions from their back catalogue by Julian Argüelles, commissioned for their tenth anniversary, this remarkable, vibrant new album featuring the Frankfurt Radio Big Band is rich in color and bursting with spirit and creativity. Julian Argüelles plays a pivotal role throughout this album, as arranger and conductor, and also appears as a soloist on Eger’s ‘ Urban Control’. Consisting of ten new arrangements of compositions from their back catalogue by Julian Argüelles, commissioned for their tenth anniversary, this remarkable, vibrant new album featuring the Frankfurt Radio Big Band is rich in color and bursting with spirit and creativity. Julian Argüelles plays a pivotal role throughout this album, as arranger and conductor, and also appears as a soloist on Eger’s ‘ Urban Control’.The tracks are Ok Chorale, Untitled#1. Stillness, Herne Hill, Charm Defensive, Zieding, Phraternal, Intro to Urban Control, Urban Control, and Happy Notes.Phronesis retains its unique character of sound and here is embellished by ‘going big. It is a treat all around. Grady Harp, March 17