Trip Wamsley, virtuoso bassist and self-described resident of the “Louisiana Dirty South,” survived Hurricane Rita and myriad other obstacles to crank out this shimmering, ethereal album of creative solo performances. The technical mastery required to carry this material is there and then some; he can slap, tap, arpeggiate, chord-comp, employ harmonics, and solo with the best of them. But for every one ripping piece of “how’d he do that?” fireworks (check out “Redneck Monolith” or “Non A-06” if you just want your head blown off), there are two pieces that slow down and hypnotically emphasize tone, layering, atmosphere, and melody. Disposed to disparate dynamics, and using the feel, technique and mannerisms of a Michael Manring-influenced bassist, Wamsley creates a sonic universe reminiscent of a cross between Bill Frisell and modern folk acoustic guitar. Curve serves as a rewarding exercise in the Zen of solo bass composition and performance.
-Bryan Beller