It takes some thinking. The title of Tommy Crane's album We're All Improvisers Now refers not only to the nature of its content, but also to the position of freelance musicians (and others) during the lockdowns of the early 1920s. Drummer Tommy Crane moves between Montreal and New York and has played with
Ambrose Akinmusire,
Aaron Parks and the
Mingus Big Band, among others. We're All Improvisers
… showcases his love of electronic music. The foundation always remains rhythm in some nine pieces that connect the hypnotic of Deutsche Elektronische Musik with contemporary ambient and musical drama that nods to rock. At times he receives assistance from additional musicians, such as saxophonists Chris Speed and Charlotte Greve, but for the most part Crane made the music himself on a battery of synthesizers, drums and electronic drums. The strength of We're All Improvisers is primarily the rhythmic or grooving approach with which each piece continually comes to life and takes off. (MR)more
