Matt Ulery's Loom

Performing a mix of compositions from the new recording and 2008's "Music Box Ballerina" (a top-ten pick for Jazzchicago for that year - see our review here), Ulery and his sextet demonstrated the symphonic nature of Ulery's singular musical vision. The commitment of the musicians in the band to these compositions is shown by the dedication shown by Loom's trumpeter Thad Franklin - who flew back from Seattle to take part. Franklin is joined by saxophonist Tim Haldeman on the front line and both responded with fine solos and strong interplay. Haldeman especially seemed inspired by the cheering crowd to reach for new directions.

Guitarist Dave Miller was just back from his stint in Amsterdam with Jeff Greene's Blink, and still somewhat reeling from the theft of his guitar and computer equipment, but trouper that he is, the young guitar star persevered - contributing his usual strong solos and array of electronic sounds. Meanwhile, drummer Jon Deitemeyer is the unsung hero of the group - working with the leader to keep everybody in line on these challenging compositions.

Of course, one important key to the sound of Loom - which seems to interweave layers of sounds into a soundtrack that is intricate but not too busy - is keyboardist Rob Clearfield - whose accordion helps give the group its vaguely European feel. He also is a talented pianist and added several moments of great beauty on the Green Mill's grand.

Ulery's experience as a tuba player gives the music a truly unique sound almost like a polka band playing modern jazz - a highly personal and original direction if there ever was one. If there was an early candidate for a MacArthur Grant, it is Ulery - is the committee listening?