ECM: Anniversary Waltz – New Releases, Autumn 2009

Although ECM celebrated its monumental 50th anniversary not too long ago, there was a flurry of activity surrounding its 40th as well, including Anniversary Waltz, a promotional sampler where jazz, folk memory, chamber poise, and improvisational risk come together in characteristic fashion. The compilation’s title tune comes from the John Abercrombie Quartet’s Wait Till You See Her (ECM 2102), which also happened to mark bassist Thomas Morgan’s debut for the label. Violinist Mark Feldman brings a robust yet gymnastic tone, while drummer Joey Baron keeps the pulse suspended between delicacy and ignition. “Anniversary Waltz” is a master class in building swing from restraint, finding its deepest momentum in what the players decline to force. Abercrombie’s guitar enters with lyrical tact, almost phosphorescent in its gentleness, while Feldman’s violin draws a darker thread through the fabric, giving the piece its inward flame. Reflection and fire coil around the same center until the…