Hristo Vitchev Quartet
Hristo Vitchev Quartet
March 19, 2015B FlatHristo Vitchev - guitarWeber Iago - pianoDan Robbins - bassMike Shannon - drumsModern jazz that is sophisticated and intense but not overdone or overwhelming, is a rare experience. But Hristo Vitchev’s Quartet is just that. His quartet has their own unique style that rollicks along joyously, despite the complexity of the music, and ends up being a treat for the head and heart both.Vitchev’s guitar is at the center of the trio, of course, and in his style, one can hear bits of Pat Metheny (the best bits), a bit of John Abercrombie, not to mention masters like Jim Hall. The quarter’s unified, contemplative sound has a dash of the ECM European cool to it, but bounces along with full-blooded American rhythm.As a leader, Vitchev found the right balance of showcasing his guitar prowess without leaving the rest of the band in the shadows. Brazilian-born Iago on piano created lush layers of sound below Vitchev’s taut melody lines, and on solos, took off into new areas that delighted even the rest of the band, not to mention the enthusiastic audience.
Robbins on bass took his share of solos as well, working together with Shannon on drums to set up a solid, fleet undercurrent that matched Vitchev and Iago. They worked together to weave a deft, nimble rhythmic foundation, turning up the heat when needed, and cooling things down at the right moments. Clearly, Vitchev worked hard to get just the right balance of members in place. That alone would have created great music. But by adding on rich and nuanced sonics from their respective positions, the quartet really made something special.The quartet’s takes on the standards and their own originals were executed so smoothly it was easy to overlook the complexity of their own arrangements. Instead of the usual one, or maybe two, pages of music, most of the time the band spread out four sheets! Closing your eyes, you would not feel it exceptionally hard to play, since everything was delivered so flawlessly, but reflecting on each piece afterwards, the high level of composition was striking.Vitchev’s playing is what most fans will notice. His tone is wonderful, with the right blend of lyrical depth and melodic groove, modern harmonies and bop agility. The tones he pulls from the guitar made each song feel more like he was painting with sound than “just” playing jazz. His solos were modal with long melody lines, each of which sounded like another song taking off in a new direction. Vitchev is a real virtuoso, but one who puts his ego behind, and the music out front.
The crowd demanded an encore even before the quartet had time to pretend to get off the stage. Hopefully, his tours will be a regular thing. Another tour of Japan is set in place for next year. Fans of great modern jazz should not miss it. http://www.hristovitchev.com