Mark Wade’s Songs from Isolation was a breath of fresh air early in the COVID-19 pandemic. The bassist/composer collaborated with vocalist Teri Leggio Wade to provide a highly satisfying album.
True Stories marks the return of the Mark Wade Trio. This ambitious collection of eight songs finds Wade exploring six previously released compositions by the likes of Wayne Shorter, Charles Mingus, Fred Hersch, Frank Kimbrough and Mikael Godee. However, rather than covering these gems, Wade adds to the compositions, rearranges each work, and leads trio members Tim Harrison and Scott Neumann around the intricately warm pieces.
The album kicks off with one of two originals, “I Feel More Like I Do Now.” Tim Harrison’s acoustic piano sets the main theme, which quickly shifts with the changes of time signature. Wade’s bass solo is as expressive as ever, and Scott Neumann’s snare and rim work add to the dynamics. The song harkens back to jazz classics of yore, setting a high bar.
“Falling Delores,” a nod toward Wayne Shorter, shifts the dynamics of True Stories. The Mark Wade Trio again negotiates tricky time signatures and changes in mood, as this track provides a new and complex avenue for every band member to shine.
One of my favorite songs on the album is “The Soldier and the Fiddle.” It’s a seemingly simple introduction, which is centered on Wade’s single repeating note on the bass gently giving way to his glorious solo, which is followed by a solo by Harrison which adds to the song’s ascent. This Mark Wade composition is said to be inspired by Igor Stravinsky. I can not make that music connection, but I will attest to the fact that “The Soldier and the Fiddle” is a piece that seems to evolve and unfold with every listen.
“In the Market” combines Joe Zawinul/Shorter themes from “Black Market” and “Herandnu.” While not having an adventurous dynamic as “The Soldier and the Fiddle,” the songs move along with the urgency and feel befitting Weather Report. The comping feel of “Piscataway Went That-a-Way” resulted from combining Fred Hersch’s “Swamp Thing” with newly composed solo sections and a reworking of Hersch’s cadence. The new 7/4 time signature, as well as solos by Wade and Harrison, create an entirely different and inviting vibe.
“A Simple Song” is based on Frank Kimbrough’s “Eventualities,” and it a piano-driven tribute to the late composer and educator. The shifting feel and tone, while featuring the entire trio, make for magnetic elements which captivate this listener.
Combining a touch of Charles Mingus’ “Song With Orange” with an original Mingus-inspired composition creates the brooding “Song With Orange and Other Things.” The song features Tim Harrison’s most delicate brushwork on True Stories, and a bass solo matches the rhythmic theme. I could listen to this one all day.
That’s not say the closer, “At the Sunside,” should be overlooked. The combination of Mikael Godee’s composition “Solokvist” with Wade’s new tune created an uplifting conclusion to an album which is equally bold in concept and execution.
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