Friday, November 19, 2021

John Edwards / N.O. Moore / Eddie Prévost / Alan Wilkinson - EMPoWered (November 19, 2021 577 Records)

EMPoWered documents an improvisational live performance from British musicians John Edwards (Double Bass), N.O. Moore (Guitar), and Eddie Prévost (Drums). The three musicians have comprised a longstanding trio, known for their vigorous riffs and unconventional introspection. But in this performance, their group expanded to include saxophonist Alan Wilkinson, adding a deeply resonant, full-bellied sound to their otherwise discrete and dynamic in-the-moment compositions. Their pace is constantly shifting, reflecting both an instant rapport between the players, and a tight command of their styles. 

This performance, in particular, calls to Sonny Sharrock’s Ask the Ages recording, and Elvin Jones’s percussive legacy. Moore’s longstanding affinity for electronic manipulation can also be heard in his use of the guitar’s self-oscillating echos, as well as filters and distortion throughout the performance. This is Moore & Prévost’s second release on 577 Records after The Secret Handshake with Danger, Vol. 1 (Olie Brice, Binker Golding, Henry Kaiser, N. O. Moore, Eddie Prévost).This marks John Edwards & Alan Wilkinson’s debut on 577 Records. EMPoWered will be available in CD and digital editions on November 19, 2021.

1. Part One
2. Part Two
3. Preview for the album 'EMPoWered'

Alan Wilkinson - Saxes
N.O. Moore - Electric guitar
John Edwards - Double bass
Eddie Prévost - Drums

Recorded January 9, 2019 by Giovanni La Rovere at Iklectik, London, UK
Mixed by Rupert Clervaux
Mastered by Jeremy Loucas, Sear Sound, New York City

Illustration by Robert Mirolo
Graphic design by Mark Smith

Music by Edwards (PRS), Prévost (PRS), Wilkinson (PRS), Moore (Five Seven Seven Records Music, ASCAP)