The Norwegian reeds star Marius Neset often sounds like several saxophonists playing simultaneously, and, as a composer, he can similarly suggest he’s aiming to pack in every possible new discovery he’s made from album to album. Circle of Chimes develops his growing interest in idiomatic hybrids, with a central role for classical cellist Andreas Brantelid, and world musician Lionel Loueke on vocals and guitar. Bookended by the sombre chiming of tubular bells, peppered with mind-warping rhythmic switchbacks and high-speed improv, see-sawing between stuttery minimalism and grooves, and leavened by airy sax and flute reveries, poignant cello parts and Loueke’s sensuous singing, the album is packed with surprises. Neither Neset’s deft manipulation of anchoring motifs, nor the fluency of the soloists (also including pianist Ivo Neame, vibraphonist Jim Hart, and Neset’s sister Ingrid on flute) dispel a slightly inchoate impression, but Loueke’s vocal warmth in the finale of Star, the Phronesis-like momentum of A New Resolution, and the pretty melody of Prague’s Ballet are highlights of a venture buzzing with fresh contemporary musical thoughts.
