Pistils is the debut recording from Sri Lankan/Australian jazz drummer and composer, Rajiv Jayaweera. The album showcases eight compelling, thoughtful originals, which draw inspiration from Sri Lanka. Jayaweera’s compositions feature strong melodies and beauty, coupled with intricate bass lines and rhythmic interplay.
Jayaweera is truly a global citizen, a fact that permeates and weaves its way into his playing and composing. He was born in London, grew up in Melbourne, is of Sri Lankan heritage and is currently based in New York City. Pistils in turn is a deeply personal reflection of Jayaweera's strong South Asian culture, an identity that is dear to his heart.
The album is bookended by two different versions of the title track 'Pistils'.The first is sparse and free of time, with the profoundly emotive vocals of special guest, Lara Bello, who sings the melody in an improvised language. It closes with a stripped back trio take with guitar, saxophone and drums playing the 'Pistils' theme, with the style of the great Paul Motian trio in mind. The melody of Pistils is a monumental achievement, and the centerpiece of this wonderful debut from an artist overflowing with potential and possibilities.
His band of Chris Cheek (soprano & tenor saxophones), Aaron Parks (piano), Hugh Stuckey (guitar) and Sam Anning (double bass), truly display why they are amongst the most revered and sought-after musicianson the scene today.
Pistils is out now via Outside in Music / Earshift Music. Tune in to PBS all this week for your chance to win a copy of Pistils (members only). Not a member? Join up today!
TOP TRACK'S WE'RE LOVING
PWD - 'Black'
Andrea Keller's Five Below - 'Life is Brut[if]al'
Phil Struck - 'Baizubai'
Roy Mills - 'Late Stage Capitalism'
Jono Ma, Itsi, Stella Mozgawa, Jonti, Ewan Pearson, Nick Maybury - 'Neon Lights (In Homage)'
Nat Vazer - 'Like Demi'
Bob Mould - 'American Crisis'
Nicole Atkins - 'Never Going Home Again'
Galcher Lustwerk - 'Speed (AceMoMa Remix)'
