Founded in Basel (Switzerland) in 2019, Perceptions Trio brings a fresh and captivating energy to the jazz scene. Their first album as a band, The Wicked Crew, features eight original compositions by the trio’s three members—Charley Rose (France), Silvan Joray (New York City / Switzerland), and Paulo Almeida (Brazil)—along with two improvised tracks. Mostly centered on beautiful, simple melodies and enhanced by imaginative use of electronic effects, the music offers an unusual yet inviting listening experience.

Each composition on The Wicked Crew reflects the distinct personality and influences of its composer, giving the album a rich palette of colors. Charley Rose blends the energy of jazz fusion and pop with expressive melodies. Silvan Joray, on the other hand, offers compositions that are meditative and contemplative, characterized by their serene beauty. Paulo Almeida brings introspective pieces, marked by rhythmic freedom, also known as „rubato“, where elasticity in the rhythm creates a sense of flow and spontaneity. Together, their compositions and improvisations seamlessly integrate these influences, resulting in a cohesive creation.

 

With his creative use of effect pedals, saxophonist Charley Rose steps beyond the traditional role of a lead instrument to also become an accompanist by crafting chords, bass lines, and atmospheric textures. This approach transforms the saxophone into a multifaceted instrument, providing harmonic and rhythmic support while also contributing striking sonic layers. 

The guitarist, Silvan Joray, complements this by stretching the limits of his role, blending extended harmonies with unusual textures and using effects to play solos that are both virtuosic and evocative.

Grounding the trio is drummer Paulo Almeida, whose playing seamlessly fuses jazz with the rhythmic complexity and vitality of his Brazilian roots. His dynamic energy ties together Perceptions Trio’s adventurous approach, adding both drive and nuance to their unique sound. 

 

The album opens with Radio Goose Bumps, a high-energy, fusion-influenced piece where Charley and Silvan dazzle with virtuosic solos, setting the stage for the album's dynamic journey. In Ubarto, a simple melody serves as the song's backbone, evolving with expressive improvisations that keep listeners hooked. Perceptions takes a meditative turn, with a lyrical melody and a mesmerizing sax solo; the guitar's unwavering eighth-note pulse feels like the gentle turning of a potter’s wheel, holding everything together until it unexpectedly halts at the end. The stark and contemplative Andromeda is a freely improvised piece, reflecting on the impartial vastness of the universe.

The title track, The Wicked Crew, is an exhilarating showcase of the band’s mastery of effects. Synth-like saxophone chords provide the foundation, a guitar synth solo flows seamlessly alongside responsive drumming, and an energetic sax solo with octave effects brings it to a climactic close. Lit Candles begins with a heavenly sax intro, only to descend into darker, introspective textures supported by low, rumbling sounds and gongs before rising into a chorale-like conclusion. In Sombra, the flexible pulse and an unconventional melody lead into an extensive drum solo and a guitar exploration featuring a slide.​

Flash Lights and Sewers Explorations lives up to its vivid title, taking listeners on a gripping journey through shadowy depths before facing an ominous force. Peaceful Departure offers a heartfelt homage to Silvan’s grandfather, weaving a delicate, touching narrative. Finally, Nebulosa closes the album with an ambient, freely improvised reflection on the beauty and mystery of space, leaving listeners in a contemplative stillness.

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Acclaimed drummer and vibraphonist Jorge Rossy, who has recently heard the trio live, says: „A Perceptions Trio concert is an inspiring and unforgettable experience. The trio creates a unique and immersive sonic world, where each member of this musical 'equilateral triangle' shines as a gifted composer. Their narratives captivate with unexpected twists, and their music is full of vitality, humor, and sophistication. Listening to them is a delightful journey for the ears that sparks the imagination, leaving the audience feeling enriched and uplifted.”