Signal to Noise Magazine Rosetta review, Winter 2006 (#44)
The guitar is likely the most expansive and adaptable instrument in the jazz arsenal. These two releases feature youngish, New York-based guitarists with differing aims. First up is a session that boasts the twin guitars of Liberty Ellman and Jamie Fox under the leadership of bassist Stephan Crump. It's a memorable outing both in terms of its compositions and its group symmetry. Throughout these eleven tracks influenced by the events of 9/11, Ellman's resonant acoustic matches Fox's kaleidoscopic electric tones for an intimate trio session that sounds as if it was recorded only for their ears. The meditative approach works well over the course of the program, with the waltz of "Tag", the darkly pensive "Were It a Loss", the somewhat ominous ebb of the cinematic "Rosetta" or the beautiful reflection of "Our Survival" all fine examples of strong compositional and ensemble work. In addition to these moving pieces, several others are worth pointing out: "Carrousel en Verre", a gently coruscating waltz that is a dream tinged with sadness, with Crump's hazy arco soaring over the floating cadence. The trio also offers a sweet, country-blues reflection on "Rosie" and the intense, dusky run of "Atanarjuat" that segues into the percussive, yet picturesque "The Bells of Bamburg". Despite its softer hues, the album never wears out its welcome. It's an engaging and sublime meeting, guaranteed to sneak up on you.