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Chris Washburne & The Syotos Band - Field of Moons

Chris Washburne and the SYOTOS Band –//- Fields of Moons – [Jazzheads Records, 2010] –

As I listen to this project, it occurred to me that I’ve encountered a variety of musical interludes during my quest to discover new music over the years. On this occasion, I find myself amid the radiant tempo, shapes and flavorings of Fields of Moons for which I’m elated to meet for the first time the somber voice of its owner trombonist/tubas’ Chris Washburne and his remarkable Latin jazz inspired ensemble SYOTOS and their extraordinary new recording on Jazzheads Records titled “Fields of Moons.”

Washburne and his comrades open this pulsating set of ten compositions with transcending melodies, harmonies and patterns found in the center of the illusive beginning of “Fields of Moons.” The unique yet warm and alluring equilibrium grows with an eclipse of soulful vibes underneath to gather strength while blanketed in a tapestry of a romantic samba is supported by the poignant interplay of SYOTOS as they exchange note for note expressively to erect their tasteful voicing’s as one collectively!

Admittedly, I initially met the compelling timbre of the trombone through the voice the soulful Wayne Henderson and the Jazz Crusader in the late sixties. Of course, since then I haven’t seriously pursued this instrument as a choice one to envelope only to find myself on this outing enthralled by the accomplish arrangements and play of Washburne’s inviting tone which is very impressive from the beginning.

With the music on “Fields of Moons” you’ll engrossed in a wealth of delightful melodies especially on the charming classics like “Obsesion”’ and the sassy “Poinciana” which both cuts encompass the heart and soul of the Latin culture and throughout this project. Jazz enthusiasts will indeed find Washburne’s sound natural and exquisite as the fullness of it surrounds you with a volume of warm, lush and intricate tones he graciously provides.

When I heard “Non Spoken and Evening Rites,” I was immediately blown away via the attractive tonality Washburne possesses along with his marvelous ensemble … with that thought in mind to be more open to the idea of embracing recordings of this magnitude with of course the trombone as featured instrument.

No doubt, with “Fields of Moons” is the near perfect choice for any listening setting as you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty, culture and quality embossed in each composition on this wonderful collection of Latin influenced music played and produced by Chris Washburne and his fabulous band SYOTOS.

SYOTOS: The Band
Chris Washburne – Trombone & Tuba
John Walsh – Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Ole Mathisen – Tenor and Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet
Barry Olsen – Piano
Leo Traversa – Electric Bass
Diego Lopez – Drums
Cristian Rivera – Percussion

Produced by Chris Washburne and Randy Klein