9th April 2020: #TBT – Tori Freestone & Alcyona Mick’s ‘Criss Cross’ ★★★★ from Jazzthetik + reviews from Der Hörspiegel, Concerto Magazine and more

With the playful opening bars of new release Criss Cross, the sublime world of tenor saxophonist and flautist Tori Freestone and pianist Alcyona Mick (plus guest vocalist Brigitte Beraha) is encapsulated through creative intrigue and improvisational dexterity, frequently glinting with mischievous spontaneity. Known for diverse roles in jazz, folk and world music, Freestone and Mick have been friends for years, performing together in different ensembles, including the London Jazz Orchestra. But it was casual duo explorations in music from their combined eclectic influences, taking in the output of Thelonious Monk, which led to an enthusiastic invitation from Manchester Jazz Festival’s artistic director, Steve Mead, to develop the project for live performance in 2015.

Here are some of the latest press highlights from across Europe:

“Here fiery, there lyrical… Simple touching melodies and full of with insight and delight.”
★★★★ Jazzthetik (website)

“A captivating hybrid of serene elegance and daring.”
Musik Reviews (website)

An atmospheric album that can’t be pigeonholed into a specific genre.”
Der Hörspiegel (full review)

“There is warmth and openness to this music that completely absorbs the listener… One of the finest albums of the year.”
Jazz Journal (website)

“There is a rare alchemy between the improvisers, a real synergy… Criss Cross is a beautiful discovery.”
Citizen Jazz (full review)

“Composed textures – rubato motifs, rhythmic themes, melodic embellishments and instinctive, unbridled improvisation.”
Concerto Magazine (website)