Album Review: Little Big III – Aaron Parks
Aaron Parks’ album Little Big III showcases his growth in jazz. Since Invisible Cinema in 2008, he has blended modern jazz with indie rock and pop. Not possible to remove the adverb. After working with Terence Blanchard and releasing albums with ECM and Ropeadope, his return to Blue Note is a key career moment.
Parks mixes complex jazz with catchy melodies, appealing to a wide audience. His unique style has won global admiration. Co-produced by Don Was of Blue Note, Little Big III highlights his quartet’s maturity. The band includes Greg Tuohey (guitar), David Ginyard Jr. (bass), and Jongkuk Kim (drums). This album showcases Parks’s most refined work, reflecting years of collaboration.
The album kicks off with “Flyways,” a signature track. It features dynamic exchanges between Parks and Tuohey, evoking a road trip. The sound is reminiscent of the Pat Metheny Group, with Tuohey’s guitar echoing Kurt Rosenwinkel. The rhythm section adds depth, creating a captivating sound.
Then, we have “Willamina,” crafted by Tuohey. It blends indie rock, blues, Americana, and post-bop. Tuohey’s guitar stands out, mixing raw emotion with melodic precision. The band’s genre-blending ability shines here.
Next is “Heart Stories,” with classical hints akin to a Bach prelude. It reimagines this in a jazz-rock style. The interplay of piano, synth, and guitar creates a dramatic sound.
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“Delusions” pushes into rock territory, featuring bluesy piano and guitar. The rhythm section drives this track with energetic beats and bass.
Finally, “Ashé” closes the album. It’s a ballad that highlights Parks’ lyrics, mixing Americana, jazz, and indie pop. The result is a serene sound that lingers.
In summary, Little Big III marks a leap in Parks’ career. The quartet’s genre-blending and sophisticated music set them apart. This album deepens their connection with listeners, offering an enriching jazz experience.
Full Tracklist:
- Flyways
- Locked Down
- Heart Stories
- Sports
- Little Beginnings
- The Machines Say No
- Willamina
- Delusions
- Ashé
