Ascending (Vinyl LP)

Ascending marks a subtle but significant shift for Clear Path Ensemble, the fourth album from bandleader Cory Champion, and his most inward‑looking work to date. Where previous records drew on collaborations with some of Aotearoa’s finest jazz musicians, here Champion locks into improvising with and in response to himself. Recorded over a single day in the same room, the album unfolds as a series of layered sonic environments across vibraphone, marimba, xylophone, bass metallophone, glockenspiel, piano, Rhodes, chimes and percussion. Ascending expands on the sensibilities first heard on last years Black Sand while honing in the spirit of late‑’70s and early‑’80s minimalist, new‑age and ambient exploration. Ultimately, Ascending feels like a window into Champion’s evolving musical philosophy, one that has earnt him the APRA Best Jazz Composition Award and a nomination at this years Aotearoa Music Awards. - Flying Out

Tracklist

1. Tongue Rhythm
2. Train of Thought
3. Apse
   
4. Saying Something
5. Ascending
6. Epicycle