Steve Lacy Trio - The Window (Soul Note, 1988)

This post is by Scott and Dan

Steve Lacy (ss); Jean-Jacques Avenel (b); Oliver Johnson (d)

Recorded on July, 30 and 31, 1987

The Window finds Steve Lacy in a trio format, along with long-time bandmates Jean-Jacques Avenel and Oliver Johnson. It's their first recorded outing as a trio. The smaller version of the Lacy sextet offers new glimpses into compositions played by the larger band. Without vocals, violin, or a second horn, more of the filigree of the larger tapestry is revealed.

Like most Lacy albums, the compositions are by the leader. In one case, "A Complicate Scene," Mary Frazee is listed as a co-composer. She is a lyricist who also co-composed "The Mantle," which appeared on Lacy's Anthem (Novus, 1990). It's a reminder that song is the basic foundation of Lacy's work, with or without lyrics. 

The title tune is composed of two modes, one song-like and the other suspenseful. "The Window" grants extensive solo time for Johnson and Avenal. "Flakes" follows with another sing-song melody and a wonderful duet between bass and drums. It's good to know that the rhythm players in Lacy's groups are so talented. Lacy's own solo on "Flakes" dances delicately over the continuing rhythmic conversion.

"A Complicate Scene" features Lacy playing in the highest register of the soprano sax. It's incredible to maintain such a clear tone that far up any wind instrument, much less the challenging soprano. He also quietly explores the breathy overtones of his horn. The free meter is punctuated by Johnson's brushwork.

"Twilight" begins as a lively march involving all three members of the trio. The pace quickens and grows less orderly after a few minutes, as Lacy explores the composition's possibilities. Eventually, Avenel takes over with a percussive solo that disregards the "beat" the tune started with, to be followed by a brief drum solo and Lacy's return to the march. 

The joyful "The Gleam," one of Lacy's most frequently recorded songs, follows. His partners again provide a fascinating backdrop to his beautifully lyrical sax. We're not sure how the repeated woodblock sounds are made but it's a great touch. Johnson's solo on "The Gleam" shows again just how resourceful a percussionist he is.

"Retreat" closes The Window gently with another three-way conversation that convinces us of the value of the trio format for these players. 

Hearing Lacy's music today, 20 years following his death, reaffirms his legacy as one of the most intriguing artists in the history of jazz. No one else has ever sounded like him or adopted his methods of composing. His consistent inventiveness across his 40-year career, never peaking but never letting up, is a wonder to reflect on.