William Parker, Hamid Drake, and Cooper-Moore make up the talented trio known as the Heart Trio. Their debut album has recently been released on Aum Fidelity, showcasing their incredible musical chemistry. While they may be new as a trio, their history together dates back decades. Parker and Drake have been playing together since their collaboration on the 1993 Peter Brötzmann album Die Like a Dog, establishing themselves as a powerhouse drummer-and-bassist duo in the world of free-leaning jazz. Cooper-Moore, on the other hand, has a longstanding musical relationship with Parker, and together with Drake, they form the core of Parker’s band In Order to Survive since 2012.
In their latest project, the Heart Trio, these seasoned musicians step out of their comfort zones by exploring new instruments with symbolic significance. Parker embraces the donso ngoni, a harplike West African instrument, the bass duduk, a traditional Armenian double reed, and a variety of flutes from different parts of the world. Drake opts for the frame drum and a minimalist drum kit, while Cooper-Moore showcases his craftsmanship with two unique instruments he constructed himself: a hoe-handle harp and an 11-tone xylophone named the ashimba. This eclectic mix of instruments adds depth and richness to their sound, allowing them to create intricate melodies and rhythmic patterns that transport listeners to a meditative state.
The Heart Trio’s music transcends traditional boundaries, drawing inspiration from a variety of cultures and musical traditions. While some may categorize their sound as “world music,” the trio’s intention is not to replicate specific styles but to harness the diverse textures and timbres of these instruments to craft a sonic landscape that is both innovative and enchanting. Their performances are characterized by hypnotic rhythms and mesmerizing melodies that invite listeners on a transcendent journey through sound.
For those eager to experience the magic of the Heart Trio live, mark your calendars for their upcoming show at Hungry Brain on Saturday, October 19th at 7 PM. Tickets are priced at $25, and the event is open to ages 21 and above. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness three musical masters come together to create a better world through their extraordinary artistry.
In addition to the Heart Trio’s performance, here are some other concerts to keep on your radar for an unforgettable live music experience.
