Third Reel

"Third Reel," the 2013 debut album from Nicolas Masson, Roberto Pianca, and Emanuele Maniscalco, is a captivating exploration of contemporary jazz that showcases the unique chemistry and individual talents of its trio members. Released on ECM Records, this 16-track album spans a concise 53 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions and improvisations that highlight the group's shared sensitivity to space and dynamics.

Nicolas Masson, a versatile saxophonist and clarinetist, joins forces with guitarist Roberto Pianca and drummer Emanuele Maniscalco, who also contributes piano on several tracks. The album features a mix of composed pieces and improvisations, with each member contributing their distinct compositional signature. From the aggressive and intense to the subtle and introspective, "Third Reel" presents a diverse range of moods and styles within the contemporary jazz genre.

The album opens with "After All," composed by Roberto Pianca, and closes with "Neuer Mond," an improvisational piece that showcases the trio's ability to engage in robust musical dialogues. Other standout tracks include "Furious Seasons," composed by Emanuele Maniscalco, and "Eleventh Winter Tale," which demonstrates the group's commitment to both composition and improvisation.

"Third Reel" is a testament to the collaborative spirit and creative potential of Nicolas Masson, Roberto Pianca, and Emanuele Maniscalco. Their debut album is a compelling introduction to their unique sound and a promising indication of the great things to come from this talented trio. Whether you're a fan of contemporary jazz or simply appreciate innovative and engaging music, "Third Reel" is sure to impress with its technical prowess, musical depth, and captivating performances.