Dan Phillips TRIO
"Divergent Flow"
Released: November 2018 CD + Digital
The first release from a Chicago based trio featuring the five compositions by guitarist Dan Phillips and two group improvisations with Timothy Daisy on drums and Krzysztof Pabian on double bass.
The album begins with the title track “Divergent Flow”, which begins with a composed harmonic line played melodically. This harmonic and melodic material is used as starting point for a group improvisation that leads to and outro melody played by arco bass. The concept of composed melodic material used as an improvisational vehicle is a common theme for the Trio. This is followed by “The Unravelling”, which features a simple melodic theme that is the basis for a rubato improvisation by the group. “Fixed Agenda” is an ostinato that is the jumping off point for Dan and the group to soar. “Extricated From” and Latitude” are free group improvisations that showcase this Trios improvisational approach that is open, democratic and compositional all at the same time in its approach. “Dip” features minimalist written material with open solo sections for each musician to improvise and then come together for a group improvisation. “Spin Cycle” features a composed melody play over a churning free rhythm by Tim and Krzysztof that gravitates toward a group concept before returning to the melody for the outro.
Personnel
Dan Phillips – guitar
Krzysztof Pabian – double bass
Timothy Daisy – drums
Reviews
“Dan Phillips’ music is highly variable, constantly changing and dynamic. He masterfully puts together loud, expressive, passionate and vivacious improvisations, turbulent and free solos, subtle, peaceful and soft solos with other elements.”
Review of Dan Phillips Trio “Divergent Flow” Avantscena 2018
“Overall this is highly original music, which offers superb musicality and unique sonic expression both artistic and professional to the core.”
Review of Dan Phillips Trio “Divergent Flow” Polish Blog Spot 2018
“With each release Phillips’ sound continues to mature and expand. What remains unchanged is his imaginative creativity and his restless inventiveness. These and his shared musical vision with his sidemen—accomplished artists in their own rights—are what make this recording an absorbing musical treat.”
Review of Dan Phillips Trio “Divergent Flow” Chicago Jazz Magazine 2018