"As It Grows" is a captivating journey into the world of avant-garde jazz, crafted by the highly accomplished pianist, composer, and improviser Russ Lossing. Released in 2011 under the HatHut Records label, this album is a testament to Lossing's unique blend of modern classical influences and free jazz sensibilities.
The album features a stellar lineup, with the legendary Paul Motian on drums and Ed Schuller on bass, creating a rich and dynamic sound that spans 51 minutes of intricate and engaging music. Each of the ten tracks, including standouts like "Motion Units," "Coyote Jumps," and "Form and Color," showcases Lossing's spacial, articulate, and artfully composed style. The material, a mix of improvised and composed pieces, offers a consistently musical and satisfyingly diverse listening experience.
Russ Lossing's playing is known for its finespun moodiness and heart-stopping beauty, making "As It Grows" a standout addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. The album's persistent strain of finespun moodiness isn't for seekers of the heavy groove, but there's enough heart-stopping beauty on this disc to make you forget, momentarily, that Keith Jarrett isn't the only pianist worth listening to. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a curious newcomer, "As It Grows" promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.