Bassist Ross McHenry may be familiar to some from his work as a member of the Shaolin Afronauts. As a result he has been on the radar for some time now so it’s great to experience his debut entitled "Distant Oceans" for First Word Records. McHenry shows that he isn’t messing around by enlisting an impressive roster of musicians. Keyboardist Mark De Clive Lowe needs no introduction and Drummer Myele Manzanza’s career has soared since emerging with Electric Wire Hustle. Ross has wrote all but one track here and has served up a fusion of rhythmic spacey experimental jazz. His compositions provide a perfect canvas for Adam Page’s Tenor Sax and flute phrasings, not to mention Luca Spiler hearty Trombone riffs. Manzanza’s drumming sets the foundation for everyone to improvise and they do so in grand fashion. There are many highlights to savor but let’s start with "Intercosmos". Page and Spiler combine for a soaring ethereal intro that eases intro Ross’s laid back bass groove. On "Griffith Park" Ross’s rhythmic bass licks complement Page’s hearty solos. "Malmsbury Shale" and "Prayers" are spirited excursions into celestial territory, particularly on the latter. MDCL sprinkles in some tasty Rhodes alongside the explosive horn section of Page, Spiler and Jon Hunt on Bass Clarinet. Normally you would be concerned that a lineup this impressive would give in to excessive soloing but this group sticks to the script by playing their roles well and taking these compositions to another level. This is simply a superb record that certainly merits your attention. Here’s hoping this is the first of many releases from Mr McHenry.
