Three Story Sandbox, Artful Dodgers Review

Artful Dodgers by Three Story Sandbox, a follow-up to their 2016 debut Three Story Sandbox and the 2014’s Snakeheads & Ladybugs, flows with the next evolution in their musical journey. The album, featuring Jack Mouse, Scott Robinson, Janice Borla, and violin virtuoso Mark Feldman, transcends traditional jazz, venturing into contemporary classical, third-steam jazz, and free improvisation.

Mouse and Robinson’s synergy, evident since their acclaimed improvised duets, finds new dimensions here. The addition of Feldman’s violin in various songs brings a decisive narrative voice, creating a dialogic interplay with Borla’s dynamic vocal range, likened to instrumental mastery. The album challenges the listener to engage deeply, offering a complex, intellectual experience suited for repeated listens with concertation to be fully appreciated.

Each track is an improvised journey in itself. “Twin Rivers” exemplifies the album’s essence — the duality of individual expression within a connected musical conversation. Robinson’s tenor saxophone and Mouse’s drumming dialog between accompaniment and lead are both musicians actively participating in this dialogic exploration. Similarly, “Kalahari Crossing” showcases a captivating interplay between Mouse, Borla, and Feldman, with each artist’s distinct background contributing to a rich, innovative soundscape.

The diversity in settings, from duets to quartets, constantly refreshes the sonic landscape. “Kamakura” is a standout track, its use of bamboo flute and Japanese percussion invoking the mysticism of the ancient Japanese capital. Here, the ensemble’s prowess in free improvisation is on full display, balancing clarity and groove.

“Tears for Ukraine” is another poignant piece, reflecting global turmoil and sorrow. In tracks like these, Three Story Sandbox’s talent for spontaneous performance shines, creating a sense of immediacy and emotional connection.

The album’s varied instrumentation adds to its textural richness. For instance, “Slip ‘n’ Slide” features the rare slide saxophone, showcasing Mouse’s versatility with various percussion instruments. “Slapshot” is a lively exchange, highlighting the impeccable chemistry between Mouse and Robinson.

Artful Dodgers is a rewarding album; a complex, intellectually, and emotionally engaging experience awaits the adventurous listener. It requires, and rewards, attentive listening, offering a window into the artists’ profound musicality and improvisational skills. Its appeal might be niche, but for those attuned to its frequencies, it provides an unforgettable journey through sound, technique, and emotion.