Emanuel Ruffler - Three Words to Thrive (2020) Hi-Res

The trio Ruffler (piano), Carter (bass) and Angulos (drums) record Three words to thrive by are as interesting for their uplifting jazz tones as for the underlying creative process. The creation began with discussions and conversations that turned into ideas that then inspired pieces of music. Their first single, Jazz Dakar, was made after all three visited West Africa, where they were strongly influenced by the history of slavery. Gospel singer and activist Valerie Troutt completes the song with wordless singing that was originally intended for a wind section. Troutt's voice is reminiscent of Anita Bakers and it's hard not to wish for more.

The compositions on the album vary from the dreamy and relaxed Out of alignment where the piano, bass and drums complement each other well, to Thunder which is more in minor and where the different instruments almost compete with each other. Both Elephant and The Infinite feel that the conversations the trio are talking about are expressed through their respective instruments, sometimes in joy, sometimes in lamentation. It is interesting how the titles of the songs affect how the music is experienced and creates images even though the album is completely instrumental.