Lynne Arriale Trio Being Human Review by Gary Hill I previously reviewed another set from this artist. I put that under progressive rock because it had a fusion and art music angle. That’s less pronounced here, with this fitting closer to traditional jazz. Still, I think there is enough of an art angle to include it under that heading, if even just so it’s aligned with the previous review. Whether you agree with that classification or not, this is a great jazz album with some nice variety. While the closing track has some non-lyrical vocals, everything else here is purely instrumental.
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Track by Track Review
Passion
Piano starts things here. They launch out into some classy jazzy from there. This thing gets pretty powerful as it works its way forward. It lands more or less along the traditional jazz end of the spectrum, but does get adventurous at times.
Courage
Wandering a little more toward fusion territory, the piano is a prominent feature on this number, too. This is powerful and has some great melodic moments.
Love
A big hunk of this is a piano solo that has some magical sound built into it. Other instruments join late to further develop the number. It’s a classy piece.
Faith
Things get dramatic, weirder and more fusion-oriented here. This is a unique and intriguing track that really qualifies as art music. It has some really freaky stuff built into it at times.
Curiosity
There is a killer jazz groove on display here. This thing is packed full of drama and style. It’s all class.
Soul
The bluesy, traditional jazz groove on this is great. It’s packed full of emotion and just oozes cool. The bass dominated part of this takes us into more adventurous territory.
Persistence
With both fusion and more traditional jazz built into it, this track is a real powerhouse that works extremely well. I’d consider it one of the highlights of the set.
Heart
There are some fusion-like angles on this, and I really love some of the bass work so much. This is a great piece that is another standout. It has some great traditional jazz in the mix at times, too, though.
Gratitude
Balladic and pretty, this is slow moving and has some particularly expressive piano work.
Joy
This really does have a joyful vibe to it. It’s energetic and fun. It’s not really on the fusion side of things, but it’s a great time.
Love (Reprise)
Featuring non-lyrical vocals, this track is an intriguing one with a lot of beauty built into it. It’s basically an atmospheric sort of piece built almost entirely around that chorale vocal element.
