I frankly didn’t expect to hear recorded music from the Riffin’ Trio. I knew the Riffin’ Trio held court monthly over at Dusty’s in Northeast Minneapolis and I figured it was a project where A-list players had some fun on the side with no recording technology insight. But I’m so glad the group ended up making some recordings! The album is called Introducing the Riffin’ Trio and it features Nelson Devereaux on tenor sax, Jake Hanson on guitar and Ted Olsen on the upright. The group has dropped two new tunes with two more on the way. . .all leading up to an EP release show on August 15 over at the Turf Club.
The tune that caught my ear is “Riffer’s Theme.” Right out the gate we get a catchy melody carried by Devereaux and Hanson. In the absence of drums, Ted Olsen turns his bass into the whole rhythm section and the feel is spot on. The band recorded the album to four-track with no overdubs, and the resulting sound is casual and strident. It’s difficult to conjure that combo of emotions in a studio, but the group succeeds all over these new recordings. It’s the kind of music that puts a smile on your face, especially when it’s played with as much enthusiasm and sophistication as the Riffin’ Trio provides. Toss the tune on and see if it doesn’t put a smile on your face!
Bravo Riffin’ Trio!! Can’t wait to hear more,
Sean McPherson
More Posts for Show: The Afternoon Cruise
