NICK MORAN

The Nick Moran Trio's debut cd The Messenger finds New York-based guitarist and composer Nick Moran in the classic organ trio setting. Together with sidemen Ed Withrington on organ and Andy Watson on drums the ensemble develops some very original and contemporary themes with the fire and finesse of a working band. Throughout this exciting, all-originals set the band explores a wide range of styles, playing bebop, funk and modal jazz with an uncanny level of awareness and communication. Moran digs in and plays the blues on the funk opener Papa George as Withrington and Watson stoke the flame. The group also becomes lyrical on Indigo City, colored by Andy's sensitive brush work. The listener is transitioned from mood to mood with ease. Moran's compositions display a deep understanding of melody and harmony, and his surprising forms provide the medium for his band to open up and express itself. The drums swing read more...