Trio S

With a foot in the rock world, the other in modern jazz and a few restless toes dangling into pools of world and classical composition, Trio S cuts a path all its own. Composer and band leader Doug Wieselman sites "perceived melodies from water sources" as the basis for these pieces, some of which are named for the body of water that inspired them. "Kamogawa" is a haunting piece named for a river that runs through Kyoto, Japan, while "Flordigan" is an elegy of sorts named for a friend whose ashes were strewn in the confluence of two streams in Washington State. Wiesleman on clarinet and guitar creates sublime tones that are heightened by the sombre cello work of Jane Scarpantoni. Incredible percussion by Kenny Wollensen hermetically seals the atmosphere of these pieces, especially in the multi-parted "Anthony's River," where instrumental variations magically alter the depth of sound while maintaining a central theme throughout. Fans of Rachel's or even Sigur Rós would find this an irresistible listening experience.