ONMO – ‘In Time And Spirit’

French guitarist and composer Jean de Talhouët spearheads ONMO’s latest release, ‘In Time And Spirit,’ showcasing a compelling blend of intricate rhythms and melodic optimism. The album, comprised of five tracks, includes a central three-part suite that demonstrates the sextet’s nuanced musical dialogue and textural variety.

Opening the record, the piece titled ‘Lapse’ immediately establishes a lively and engaging tone, driven by de Talhouët’s extended guitar solo. Its buoyant phrasing sets the stage for the complex yet accessible compositions that follow, reflecting the ensemble’s cohesive interplay and dynamic energy.

The titular suite, ‘In Time And Spirit,’ unfolds across three movements, each exploring different facets of the group’s collective sound. The first movement features a delicate bass solo from Huw V Williams, supported by Rupert Cox’s sparse piano textures. This introduction lays the groundwork for a contrapuntal structure that gradually intensifies through interwoven rhythmic lines articulated by various band members.

The suite’s second part introduces saxophonist George Crowley as a guest alongside the band’s regular tenor saxophonist Jonathan Chung. Their collaboration, complemented by Mike Soper’s trumpet, presents a series of choppy, interlocking horn lines. These passages are marked by solo interjections set against subtly shifting piano and guitar motifs, emphasizing the ensemble’s textural layering.

Rupert Cox commands the final movement with an expansive piano solo that occupies much of the track’s duration. Supported rhythmically by Williams’ bass and Joost Hendrickx’s incisive drumming, Cox gradually escalates the momentum. The climax arrives as de Talhouët’s guitar reenters, driving the composition to a powerful conclusion.

Throughout the album, the musicians maintain distinct rhythmic voices, frequently exchanging roles to sustain a sense of tension and release. This intricate approach reflects the group’s commitment to collaborative improvisation balanced with structured composition.

The production quality, overseen by Daniel James Goodwin with additional input from Chris Hyson and Zac Gvirtzman, enhances the album’s clarity and vibrancy. The mixing and mastering emphasize the interplay between instruments while preserving the warmth and immediacy of the performances.

Released on Friday, 16 October, ‘In Time And Spirit’ marks a significant contribution to contemporary jazz, reflecting ONMO’s evolving sound and artistic vision. Details regarding further context or live performances remain limited at this time, but the album positions the sextet as a noteworthy presence on the jazz scene.

With its blend of compositional sophistication and spirited execution, ‘In Time And Spirit’ invites listeners into a richly textured sonic landscape. The album’s concise format belies the depth of expression contained within its five tracks, offering a fresh perspective on ensemble-driven jazz.