Description
Time never stands still for a multifaceted creator like guitarist and composer Rez Abbasi. His ever-evolving musical journey mirrors the changing currents of his life, from personal introspection to broader social landscapes observed from his New York home. A 2021 Guggenheim Fellow, Rez's 17th recording, Sound Remains, marks a return to the warmth and immediacy of the acoustic guitar with his long-standing ensemble, the Rez Abbasi Acoustic Quartet (RAAQ).
On this album - the group's third - Rez reunites with vibraphonist Bill Ware, bassist Stephan Crump, and drummer Eric McPherson, whose collective synergy has powered their previous acclaimed albums, Natural Selection and Intents and Purposes. This time, the lineup expands with master percussionist Hasan Bakr, who brings the deep-rooted rhythms of his Gullah-Geechee heritage, adding new layers of texture and interplay.
This sonic world has been beautifully realised on the album. Rez uses steel string acoustic guitars throughout the record - an unusual instrument in a jazz context and one that he has made his own. A deeply personal work, Sound Remains unfolds as a meditation suite - each composition reflecting Rez's exploration of presence, mindfulness, and the dissolution of ego-driven attachment. "Meditation helps me align with the peace that comes from releasing perpetual desires and personal conditioning. When I reach that space, often the only thing that remains is sound." Each original tune presents a series of intricate compositional ideas, powerfully realized by the natural empathy of the group and the emotional commitment of the performances.
Sound Remains is rich in depth and emotion, a testament to the profound connection between Rez and his band. "Eric's use of space complements Hasan's rhythmic feel beautifully. Bill's sound on vibes is uniquely his own. And Stephan's presence on bass is commanding. We captured something truly special on this record."
