Attila Fias - STORIES
The Attila Fias Trio's debut album is entitled "Stories" - a spirited fusion of modern jazz with various ethnic influences such as Brazilian, Indian and Hungarian as well as touches of Classical and Electronica music. Attila Fias has drawn on his multi-faceted background and created 10 compositions (stories) that are rhythmically exciting, descriptive and musical.
The pieces range from "Samba Para Nos" and "Urban Life" which are Brazilian jazz inspired, to "Colours" and "Voyage To Victoria" which are more straight ahead jazz tunes. The two pensive ballads "A Little Melancholy (Can Be Nice)" and "Hungarian Vignette" offer beautiful melodies and moody harmonies with sparkling piano improvisations. The three "Growth Cycle" pieces are the most experimental compositions on the album. Exploring unusual rhythms and harmonies while still incorporating elements of swing and funk and completely free improvisational sections, the trio seems to read each other's thoughts. The album is eclectic, but feels unified by a common musical spirit. Attila's unique melodic and harmonic language is sophisticated, catchy and interesting all the way through, complemented beautifully by the bass and drums.
The CD receives airplay in Toronto on Jazz-FM and nationwide on CBC radio, and gets very positive reviews:
"Fias' sophisticated playing, classical influences and penchant for shifting rhythms recall Dave Brubeck, while the irreverence and skilled group improvisation evoke The Bad Plus."
-The Toronto Star
"...fiery...hews close to mainstream's core but he incorporates rich, rolling rhythms...and sometimes dips craftily into free jazz..."
-The WholeNote Magazine
"..this pianist possesses, in addition to manifold chops, a desire to spring his music from the confines of traditional songwriting. Challenging rhythmic structures...relentlessly playful...stunning piano work"
-Hour Magazine (Montreal)
What musicians said:
"...your CD, ...just killed me. Everybody's playing is amazing and your tunes are beautiful and fascinating. Wherever your music is coming from, it is some of the most original and intriguing music I've heard in a long time. I'm totally amazed at what you've done."
-DON THOMPSON (Canadian jazz legend)
"...your trio album; it's beautiful! Great tunes with just the right level of complexity, excellent playing and a great recording."
-ERIC ST. LAURENT
Buy it on iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/bw/album/stories/1147271038