|
Cadence
Magazine, August 2005 On Milligan-Eagles Project we are offered eight originals and one by Dave Holland in the debut of a musically sophisticated fusion trio. Notable is the combination of Milligan’s big toned, supple bass sound, funky and solidly riffing at times, hauntingly lyrical in other spots, exploratory and free-wheeling in still other moments; Eagles’ centered yet edgy electric guitar—he is fleet of finger and can freely articulate with an advanced harmonic sense while getting various ringingly evocative electric sounds on his guitar; finally there is Kilson’s stylistically diverse drumming, which is all over the kit and furiously in the pocket as required. He from the start seems to revel in the opportunity this trio provides—a chance to play more freely and or more densely than is sometimes the case within the structural concerns of Holland’s larger units. All this makes for a potent, heady program and some of the best fusion I’ve heard in years—by turns rocking, meditative, and out in the ozone. That Milligan has studied with Dave Holland is clear. It is what he does with the knowledge that is so interesting. He shows in his compositions and in his playing a more electrified conception of Holland’s celebrated later style. The tunes throughout are stirring vehicles for a three-way dialogue. Liner notes mention that the trio has been inspired by the Gateway trio sessions and various Lifetime units. That is apparent. Terje Rypdal’s wonderful middle period also comes to mind. Still, the Milligan-Eagles Project manages to mark out its own trail in this well-traveled region. It is one gorgeous CD from start to finish.
©
Cadence Magazine
2005. Published by CADNOR Ltd. All rights reserved. [Home]-[Bios]-[Reviews]-[Samples]-[Links]-[Gigs]-[Contact] Milligan-Eagles Project Copyright 2005 |
|