by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

After seven years of solo work, Neil Cowley has reunited with his trio. The motivation was a need for ‘connection’ in the digital age, for while Cowley has enjoyed a good deal of success in his solo ventures, collaborating with the likes of Ben Lukas Boysen, Maribou State and Rival Consoles, he missed the personal and musical synchronization with his partners, bassist Rex Horan and drummer Evan Jenkins.

Their live reunion in June was met with great acclaim – but Entity is the result of a week-long studio reunion. Cowley prepared for this with pre recorded synth and drum parts to play along too, but those were soon jettisoned, in the name of what he describes as ‘some kind of human push back’.

The week-long session took place at Real World, with production from Ethan Johns.

What’s the music like?

Instinctive and vibrant, just as Cowley would surely have wanted. The musicianship here is remarkable, but all the more satisfying for the chemistry between the members of the trio, who know when to press forward musically but also – crucially – when to pull back and allow room for development.

Cowley’s flowing piano in V&A is particularly beautiful, as it is on Shoot – where Horan and Jenkins add especially persuasive rhythms. Marble begins in serene fashion, an example of how Cowley can bring stately phrasing to his piano work – while at other times it becomes humourous and mischievous.

Father Daughter has a distinctive melody that sticks, while Brood and Photo Box are more conversational, the latter on a more intimate scale. Meanwhile the playful Adam Alphabet, with a lithe rhythm section, is irresistible.

Does it all work?

It does – and joyously so. Sometimes reducing the time you have in the studio brings positive results, and that is definitely the case here – for the innate understanding between Cowley, Horan and Jenkins is clear.

Is it recommended?

It is – no need to hesitate if you have bought the trio’s previous albums, and equally a great place to start if you’re new or know Cowley through his solo work. A timely reminder that while technology is great for music, you can’t beat human interaction.

For fans of… GoGo Penguin, Portico Quartet, Tord Gustavsen Trio

Listen and Buy

Published post no.2,322 – Saturday 5 October 2024