The Cut Off Point [CD]

The debut album from the ever-searching, eclectic guitarist Phil Robson and his organ trio, featuring Ross Stanley on Hammond organ and Gene Calderazzo on drums.

Influenced by the jazz eminence of Pat Martino, Wes Montgomery and John McLaughlin, but also with a heavier rock-grooving predilection, this close-knit triumvirate punch their way through seven of the leader's compositions, as well as a hustling interpretation of a number by US saxman David Liebman.

From the swinging ebullience of Herbie Hancock-styled "Thief" to the lofty spaciality of "Astral" (dedicated to Kenny Wheeler), the mercurial moods of "Second Thoughts" to the quirky, almost '60s sci-fi feel of "Dimi and the Blue Men" and effervescent angularity of title track "The Cut Off Point", here is a recording that takes the organ trio format into fresh spheres, and the groove is irresistible.

Robson has released four contrasting solo records to date and is known throughout the world for his contribution to the long-running quartet Partisans (their release Swamp won Album of the Year in the 2015 Parliamentary Jazz Awards). As a sideman he's performed with Kenny Wheeler, Mark Turner, Billy Hart, Barbara Streisand, Django Bates, Christine Tobin, among others.

Personnel: Phil Robson (guitars), Ross Stanley (Hammond organ), Gene Calderazzo (drums)