The signature-lyricism and melancholy of Colin Vallon’s compositions as well as his trio’s understated three-way interaction remain magically intact on Samares. Yet, much has evolved in the sound of the Swiss pianist’s group since their last record for ECM, 2017’s Danse, among other things Vallon’s freshly introduced use of electronics to modulate his instrument’s pitch. Dynamic extremes are explored and tuneful hooks – some melody-, some harmony-, others beat-based – patiently assembled, often completed in mesmerising fashion. Where subtle rhythmic twists and harmonic progressions constructed around piano triads recall cutting-edge inspirations from the world of art-rock, other expositions reveal a tight-knit jazz trio elaborating a chamber sound focused on close listening and reacting.

Recorded at Lugano’s Auditorio Stelio Molo in 2023, Samares was produced by Manfred Eicher.