Stade

From the cover photo that layers the faces of Pierre Audetat and Christophe Calpini of the Swiss duo Stade, it's clear that a cool fusion is at play. Unlike the occasionally overwrought or mawkish '70s experiments in blending rock and jazz progressions, Stade follows the Miles Davis tendency to drop moody colours into kinetic grooves. Calpini's live drumming is key in setting the scene, while both members are skilled electronic re-interpreters of live sessions. For those jams the duo invited three collaborators, the first is easily assimilated French trumpet player Eric Truffaz, whose electro jazz works share some relativity. More daring is the inclusion of NYC guitarist Elliott Sharp. Known for at times aggressive playing, here he's harnessed and redeployed with sniper-sharp aim. Grégoire Maret contributes harmonica tracks that go from funky and rhythmic to sublime and searching. The electronics serve as flowing mucilage to bind the elements and also define the mood of each piece. It's a masterful assemblage.