Samuel Bonnet plays guitar. He uses nylon strings, which are most associated with classical guitar (though, of course, that's a fairly modern trend). If you've never heard them played, nylon strings produce a rounder, warmer sound. His trio consists of Jonathan-Guillaume Boudreau on double bass and Simon Bergeron on drums. Joe Magnarelli brings his trumpet and flugelhorn to half the pieces here.

Samuel Bonnet Trio featuring Joe Magnarelli Slow (self-released)

Bonnet finds inspiration for his pieces from a wide variety of styles within and outside of jazz. Befitting his string selection, most of these pieces create a contemplative mood despite the often frenzied and virtuosic playing within them.

Even the languid portions of this album are always in motion, but the album title is more about finding a slower and more deliberate path in life. Something plenty of people in my area (D.C.) could learn a thing or two about.

The greatest strength of the trio (and Magnarelli in his moments) is the constant attention to melody, even within dense and technical passages. Tangents are welcome, and the improvisations here are thoughtful and inclusive. That same approach runs through the entire album. Despite Bonnet's position as leader and writer, his trio (and guest) are given full run. A glowing set that impresses more with each passing listen.

Jon Worley