This new release has a total runtime of 44 minutes and every minute counts here as Mitch Towne keeps the listener engaged from beginning to end. This is a recording debut as a leader for Mitch Towne who is an accomplished jazz organist. With Mitch Towne on the Hammond organ, he also adds two talented instrumentalists to the lineup and they are Tetsuya Nishiyama on guitar and Jeffery Johnson on drums. Together this trio has created thoughtful & swingin’ tunes that can be enjoyed by many on ‘Refuge’.
Known in the modern jazz world, Mitch Towne brings his talents on the keys to the new album. With six original compositions and one song written by the late Kenny Kirkland, ‘Refuge’ explores the wonderful world of jazz in stellar fashion. With sensational solos and spirited verses, Mitch invites the audience to take ‘Refuge’ like never before and let your ears run wild.
Mitch Towne kicks things off with a vibrant number called “Wolverine” that is shredding up the competition. Prepare to take a big, healthy bite out of “Wolverine” that provides an appealing rhythm and solid arrangement. We head into the title track next where “Refuge” is the place to be! This track has a nice texture and is audibly pleasing proving that “Refuge” is a land of pure joy musically. Get ready for an easy-going flow that will ease your mind and calm your senses on “Better Now Than Never At All”. Catchy chords and colorful notes will be hitting you from all angles on “Better Now Than Never At All”. Mitch Towne is in the driver’s seat on “Ode To Kenny” and heading in the right direction. “Ode To Kenny” is musical precision in motion as Mitch drives this one home with sound movement and judgment. Track five, “Steepian Faith” is a fitting tribute to the late, great Kenny Kirkland who was an accomplished pianist & keyboardist. Mitch is tempting listeners with its intriguing melody on “Steepian Faith” while also honoring a fallen musician. The keys are alive & well on “Steepian Faith” as Mitch Towne tickles the ivories all for Kenny Kirkland and his legacy. A pleasant sound hits you on “Some Work of Noble Note, May Yet Be Done” where bright melodics fill the air. It’s safe to say that a slow ‘n’ steady pace wins this particular race on “Some Work Of Noble Note, May Yet Be Done”. Mitch Towne delivers a strong performance and goes out on top with the closing number titled “Act As If”. Mitch is playing with ease and a sense of extreme confidence that is a real treat to hear on “Act As If”. Excellent instrumentation and song structure makes “Act As If” a top-notch jazz composition for Today.
Enjoy this modern jazz trio where the organ is highlighted and the guitar and drums bring it all together nicely on ‘Refuge’. Listeners will love the fresh style of Mitch Towne as the music will move you and excite you. This proves to be the perfect ‘Refuge’ all around, so come ONE, come ALL and allow Mitch Towne to light up your ears!
By Jimmy Rae
