Multi-instrumentalist Chris Aschman impresses with a dynamic, trumpet-led appeal across new track “Triangles,” exploring a lusher, more introspective side of his songwriting. The third single from his debut album Volcanic, “Triangles” blends modern jazz fusion with a funky, calypso-inspired 3/4 groove. Aschman’s trumpet leads a seasoned ensemble through unique rhythmic signatures, drawing on his deep Caribbean influences and jazz roots to create a soulful, sophisticated Bay Area debut.
The track’s production maintains a lovely line between blissfully hypnotic and infectious grooves. Warren Wolf’s vibraphone work is immediately consuming, trickling with dreamy allure, while Kai Lyons’ smooth guitar tones meld seamlessly with the vibraphone and jazzy rhythms. Aschman’s expressively melodic trumpet presence emerges shortly thereafter, coexisting wonderfully with the more subdued range of keys and guitar.
Magnetic vibraphone tones and a warming, laid-back bass line play off other each as the two-minute turn passes, with Lyons’ guitar tones injecting an occasional soulful flair. The trumpet reappears around midpoint, here echoing a more nocturnal tone than before, still vibrant and expressive though with a single-layered precision, rather than the initial push’s colorful progressions. The trumpet work then assumes a free-flowing entrancement across the final couple minutes, culminating in a satiating finale with punchy brass pulses. Full of both impressive musicianship and melodically gripping energy, “Triangles” presents an excellent listening experience from Chris Aschman.
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