ATM artist: Billy Test Trio - Coming Down Roses - New Release review
I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release (August 13, 2021), Coming Down Roses , from the Billy Test Trio and it's really cool. Opening with All of You , a traditional Cole Porter number, Billy Test on piano is anything but subdued. His piano energy is over the top and Evan Gregor on bass stands out nicely on standup bass. Playing a bit of drums myself, I appreciate Ian Froman's tight time, textural use of ride cymbal and snare accents as much as his riding splash cymbals. Great opener. Original track, Fate is a bit more adventurous with a strong lyric melody but inventive improvization by Test. His use of not only phrasing but intensity and delicacy of presentation adds nicely to the composition. Driving track, Coming Down Roses , really is a solid concept with the agressive bass line of Gregor holding the bottom, Test really running hard on piano and Froman's complimentary drum accents. Gregor takes a really nice detour on bass while Test and Froman...