RYAN MACKSTALLER TRIO: Nice Day for a Swim

Ryan Mackstaller Trio

Nice Day for a Swim

© 2002 Ryan Mackstaller (641444916528)

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Guitar driven jazz ranging from traditional "burners" to post-modern eclecticism.

tracks

1 Fellowship
2 No Bailamos
3 Back in Five Minutes
4 Nice Day For a Swim
5 Requiem For a Dream
6 Sam Hill
7 Say What?
8 So You're Leaving?

notes

"Having begun as the Strange Brew Trio in 1999, the Ryan Mackstaller Trio was 'rooted in the music of John Scofield, Monk, Miles Davis, and Rashaan Roland Kirk.' In 2001, Mackstaller decided the trio should go a different direction and planned the release of original guitar trio music.
And here we are, with the release of self produced Nice Day for a Swim in 2002. Some of the tracks on this album strike me as being Ambient jazz, with mellow and/or melancholy tones, while some others have hints of Fusion. The artists do not hold strongly to any particular genre, which is probably why their music also appeals to people outside of the 'jazz' fan base. Appearing to be somewhat thematic in nature, some of the tracks remind me of music played during a movie action sequence - sometimes the music can be tense, keeping the listener's emotions on edge, while other times it can be mellow and soothing.

In my opinion, some of the tracks here are reminiscent of music by the contemporary rock band, Radiohead. Some may do a double-take when reading this, but Radiohead's somber, yet heavy, style did come to mind when I first listened to the beginning tracks on Nice Day for a Swim.In addition, both bands are noted for their originality in style. Whatever my opinion is, this is an excellent album - Mackstaller shows masterful guitar playing, and the other two on acoustic bass and drums complement him very well. This may not be my first choice for easy evening listening, but it would be perfect for a mid-afternoon escape, or late night driving."

-Paul Wright, JazzReview.com


"Sound technique, good tunes, and delightful circles of melodic improvisation."

-Jerry D'Souza, All About Jazz
(Full review: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/reviews/r1202_082.htm)


"One of the most progressive and broad-minded guitarists in town."

-MetroTimes (Detroit)

reviews

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  • great jazz album!
    author: christoph from goerlitz/germany

    a great trio on guitar, bass and drums with gripping compositions on a high level. it's fun listening.

  • Cool jazz for the new millenium
    author: Seth Wolfshorndl

    One word comes to mind as you pop this album in and the notes start to hit you..."atmosphere." The first track does indeed have a Radiohead feel to it, somber and thoughtful. But there is much more here than that. To me, the stripped down sound and Mackstaller's ultra-clean guitar stylings bring to mind the cool jazz of the 50's, but with a decidedly modern twist. Excellent variation in tone make this a CD you can leave on repeat and not notice. What really impresses me about this trio is that they are melodic enough to be accessible, inventive enough to be thoroughly interesting, and swinging enough to be considered true jazz artists. And, man, they can swing...not the big band swing, of course, but the note-perfect Kind of Blue swing. Just check out "So You're Leaving", if you don't believe me. It'll be a crime if these guys don't make another album...and soon!

  • Melodic Masterpiece
    author: Alex Harper

    Wow. This CD is amazing without even considering that it's a completely independant release. The trio gets a wonderful full sound. Some of these melodies are so catchy, I'm singing them before the track even starts!

  • Wonderful Selection and Execution
    author: John

    This with no doubt is one of those recordings that enhance what you are doing. Thinking, about the future, about the past, what you are doing now. The relation between the instruments are tight and tasteful. There are many tones and licks that get your attention and want to ask the band how did you do that? This CD addresses many moods and themes. It is one of the best I have bought off CD Baby. I hope the band keeps on playing and producing.

  • inspired improvisations, great compisitions, excellent drum/guitar chemistry
    author: tom

    Ryan Mackstallers first record captures the guitarists great potential is a composer. tunes such as the title track and the first track "fellowship" are great compisitions, complimented by exceleent soloing. all around great record, check it out.

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