Russ Lossing, Metamorphism Review

Russ Lossing is a pianist that has performed in some of the world’s leading jazz festivals, including the London, Vienna, Harlem, Cully (Switzerland), Toronto, and Venice (Italy) Jazz festivals, to name just a few. He has also performed in jazz clubs in New York and Europe, including The Village Vanguard, Blue Note NYC, The Jazz Standard, Birdland, Porgy and Bess (Vienna), Unterfahrt (Munich), Jazz Club Ferrara (Italy), and many more over 40 years. Lossing has gained a reputation as a consummate improviser and composer in the world of modern jazz, improvisation, and composition. His unique vision, deep integrity, and thoughtful improvisations are the foundation of his individual voice as a player and composer. Lossing has been part of the New York jazz scene since 1986 and performed with drummer Paul Motian for over twelve years. Lossing has composed over 400 works, has nineteen albums as a leader, and is featured on over fifty albums as a sideman and collaborator. Lossing is now releasing Metamorphism on Sunnyside Records.

Bottom Line: Metamorphism is made up of eight tracks, and Lossing is joined by longtime collaborators Loren Stillman on alto and soprano saxophone, John Hébert on bass, and Michael Sarin on drums. Lossing wrote all the music with this quartet in mind and to have the music be performed in a very interactive and spontaneous manner. “Three Treasures” is the rhythmically active opening track. Instantly the interaction between the players can be heard. The solo sections is where this quartet shines; the freedom and creativity of the rhythm section’s interaction with each other and the soloist are outstanding. “Sojourn” has a lyrical melody and straight-eight feel. The title track is an ode to Paul Motian and has some of Lossing’s most inspired playing. “June Jig” is a highlight, with its adventurous melody and outstanding drumming by Sarin. Overall, Metamorphism is a celebration of well-written compositions presented by a quartet that can flow in the moment to create an exciting modern jazz sound. That’s the short of it!