AFJP – Live at 3 Spots
- Patrick Duchesne
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Annam Nguyen, a passionate guitarist and teacher, is one of the jazz musicians who bring thrills to the Quebec jazz scene. With the new album from his band, Annam's Family Jazz Project (AFJP), he reveals a new facet of his creativity and musical universe. Live at 3 Spots is an album recorded live in three different venues: Boquébière (Sherbrooke), Diese Onze (Montreal), and Bar Ste-Angèle (Quebec City).
Driven by the unique energy of each performance, AFJP displays a varied soundscape, ranging from traditional atmospheres to bolder and unexpected explorations. Annam's philosophy? A playful and lively approach to jazz, both in teaching and playing music. The album reflects this personal vision, which brings together six original compositions and three revisited pieces.
The album opens with Moodswing, a track true to its title, alternating between swing and Latin rhythms. The contrasts are also evident in the harmony: softer sounds in the swing section, then suspense and tension in the Latin portion, which captures the listener's attention.
The next piece, Yes and No, composed by Wayne Shorter (1933–2023), begins with a dialogue between the double bass and drums, which develops into ten minutes of intense creativity. With Waltz for a Tree, Annam offers a gentle melody inspired by a waltz. Quickly, a surprising detail emerges: the musical phrase has one less beat, breaking the expected balance.
This rhythmic irregularity gives the piece its unique character.The following pieces mark a more biting shift in the album: Foot Massage launches this new funky energy, with a saturated guitar sound that adds intensity and color to the piece.
Veiled Princess is an album highlight. The captivating melody has a striking yet mysterious character—a quality that the soloists replicate in their improvisations.Immediately followed by Dry Hands Need Creamin’, we dive back into an energetic funk universe. The brass and guitar create a rich, striking sound. The use of a phaser effect adds a new dimension to the guitar tone.After these marked contrasts, the album returns to more subdued atmospheres.
Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum (by Wayne Shorter) begins with an airy and contemplative introduction. The arrangement particularly displays the double bass, supported by the saxophone and guitar. We feel the complicity between the musicians in their exchanges, each sensitively accompanying the soloists' ideas.
Frigidair recalls Annam's rock influences with a funky piece. The rhythm section provides a groove that carries the improvisations confidently.
The album concludes gently with In Your Own Sweet Way, a composition by Dave Brubeck. The interpretation favors a calm and refined atmosphere while maintaining a rich harmony. The soloists navigate with finesse between simplicity and expressive complexity.
In conclusion, Annam and his group offer a rich album that fully embraces the blend of tradition and exploration. Through the diversity of its performances, the ensemble presents a bold and inspiring album.
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