Gwilym Simcock's "Near and Now" is a captivating journey through the world of jazz, released on April 26, 2019, under the ACT Music label. This album is a testament to Simcock's virtuosity and his ability to blend various influences into a cohesive and engaging musical experience. With a runtime of 58 minutes, "Near and Now" features eight tracks, each dedicated to a different musical luminary who has inspired Simcock.
The album opens with a three-part suite, "Beautiful Is Our Moment (For Billy Childs)," showcasing Simcock's intricate compositions and his knack for creating immersive musical landscapes. Following this, "Before the Elegant Hour (For Brad Mehldau)" and "You're My You (For Les Chisnall)" highlight Simcock's pianistic prowess and his ability to convey deep emotional resonance through his playing.
"Inveraray Air (For Russell Ferrante)" offers a taste of Simcock's Scottish roots, blending traditional folk melodies with contemporary jazz sensibilities. The album concludes with another three-part suite, "Many Worlds Away (For Egberto Gismonti)," demonstrating Simcock's ability to explore complex rhythmic and harmonic structures with grace and precision.
Throughout "Near and Now," Simcock's playing is characterized by its technical brilliance, lyrical sensitivity, and a deep sense of musicality. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the breadth and depth of Gwilym Simcock's artistry.
