Thomas, Ben - The Hat with the Grin and the Chuckle [CD]

Rooted deep in the traditional rhythms of Argentine tango, yet fearlessly modern in spirit, multi-instrumentalist Ben Thomas' compositions offer a rich tapestry of layered polyrhythms, inventive melodies, and surprising contrasts. Echoes of great bandoneon maestros like Dino Saluzzi, Astor Piazzolla and Osvaldo Pugliese may surface, but always refracted through Ben's personal vision and the splendid accompaniment of his longtime band mates, clarinetist Eric Likkel & bassist Steve Schermer, along with violinists Laura Coronel and Elizabeth Phelps, and pianist Gabe Hall-Rodrigues. The album's title celebrates the memory of Seattle's larger-than-life French chef, Thierry Rautureau – well known as The Chef in the Hat - whose thriving bistro "LUC" served as the incubator for much of this music over Thomas' several years of performances there. "strong rhythmic structures, flowing tempo changes, melancholy, exuberant happiness - a beautiful tango nuevo album!" -Jazz'N'More, Switzerland"... incredibly accomplished virtuoso... an improviser and composer of deep expressiveness, wit, and crisply focused execution... Thomas' music breaks some molds, but it never abandons a connection to tango's fiery melancholy, deep sense of groove, and rhythmic drive." - Earshot Magazine