Metta [CD]

Following up his debut release on Whirlwind ('Thymos', 2013), 'Metta' finds British double bassist and composer Matt Ridley progressing his shared creativity again with his quartet of pianist John Turville, drummer George Hart, and soprano saxophonist Jason Yarde. Captured within a single day, this is a studio recording brimming with passion and spontaneity.

Matt Ridley describes his quartet's offering as "considered, composed/improvised music which might transport and entertain both listeners and players, creating and involving all in an awareness of the present - that's something I feel strongly about." The immersive experience of these fifty-or-so minutes suggests that intention is excitingly on-track.

The seven extended originals of 'Mettã' arise from an almost strategic, compositional plan which inspires engaging extemporisation from all players. Removed from any notion of a conventional head/solo approach, Ridley's musical landscape is one of focused rhythmic, chordal and improvisational invention which can both challenge and delight - as in storytelling opener "Music to Drive Home To", whose steady, end-of-day journeying, led by Jason Yarde's colourful soprano dialogue and John Turville's spangled ostinati, is punctuated by unpredictable pauses.

Personnel: Matt Ridley (double bass), Jason Yarde (soprano saxophone), John Turville (piano), George Hart (drums)