Jazz group Trio M work together so well that their most recent CD, “Big Picture,” was recorded in just one afternoon ? and wound up on All About Jazz?s Top Ten Albums of 2007.
Trio M consists of pianist Myra Melford, drummer Matt Wilson and bassist Mark Dresser. The group performs at An die Musik LIVE! on Feb. 2.
Wilson, who was recently voted #1 Rising Star Drummer in the 2007 Downbeat Critics Poll, talked to The Examiner about the new album, constant touring and juggling three different bands.
QHow is it working with Myra Melford and Mark Dresser?
AIt?s a nice balance, we each contribute. We all have the same values as far as trying to go with the flow and just allowing things to happen. Each of them offer such a great personal sound, but it?s a sound that?s very malleable. They are just unbelievable. It?s been a really great opportunity for me to try and do this.
QYou also play in the Mark Wilson Quartet, as well as Arts and Crafts, your side project. Do you ever feel drained of inspiration?
ANo. Not when you?re around these kind of folks. All you have to do is just be open, and the inspiration comes. You have to just let the energy and the inspiration of the musicians flow through you, and welcome that. I get blocks as far as writing and composing, but once you get out of your way, that flows too. I?ve been playing for so long and I love it so much that I?m always ready to play, and there?s always something.
QYour new album, “Big Picture,” highlights each artist individually instead of focusing on one particular person or instrument.
AIt?s not always as if someone is soloing, at the forefront of the spectrum. It?s a little different, I think, than a regular jazz situation. Everyone is a little bit more like part of the conversation, each one of us has the table at some point. That?s what makes it unique. These performers are all really endearing … It?s not like, ?you better get it or you?re not cool.? We just hope it sounds in you.
IF YOU GO
Creative Differences 2008 ? Trio M
WHERE: An die Musik LIVE!, 409 N. Charles St., Baltimore
WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday
TICKETS: $18 to $20
