Australian piano trio Trichotomy really need no introduction. Over the course of three compelling albums for Naim Jazz - Variations (2010), The Gentle War (2011), and Fact Finding Mission (2013), they have carved out a reputation as one of the most exciting trios in contemporary jazz combining the lyricism of EST and the energy levels of The Bad Plus while nonetheless finding their own unique melodic voice and ensemble sound. Inspired by a diverse range of influences from Aphex Twin to Vijay Iyer, and John Zorn to Tord Gustavsen, Trichotomy’s music combines a dense rhythmic focus with a refined melodic clarity. Since their last album, a hectic schedule in Australia has recently seen them collaborate with chamber groups, video artists, string quartets and symphony orchestras creating music that continues to push contemporary jazz into new areas.
In 2013 the group was a finalist in the APRA Art Music Award for Excellence in Jazz (Australia) and have been previous winners of the QLD Music Award for Jazz and finalists for the Australian AIR and BELL awards for contemporary jazz album of the year.
In 2016 they are Ensemble in Residence at Griffith University, QLD Conservatorium, performing a series of concerts featuring new work.
2017 sees the trio return with a new release, KNOWN-UNKNOWN on the acclaimed European label, Challenge Records. In a distinct step into new territory electronic sounds merge with their acoustic improvisations, while the complexity of their compositions and group improvisations are balanced by graceful melodies and rich harmonies. This bold new work puts them firmly forward as a group with vision, depth and intensity. Vivid and bright, it is compelling listening.
They tour the UK/Europe in Jan/Feb 2017.
Line up: Sean Foran – piano John Parker – drums Samuel Vincent – double bass Selected performance history: Jazzahead Festival Germany, Tokyo, Takatsuki, and Kutchan Jazz Festivals Japan, Melbourne Jazz Festival, Brisbane Jazz Festival, Darling Harbour Jazz Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Canberra Jazz Festival, extensive tours around the UK, MIDEM Music Conference France & tours to Japan, Canada, China, & South America.
The Guardian "These three make the resources of the conventional piano trio go a long way." MOJO Magazine “delightfully detailed ensembles, full of wit and vigour…they bamboozle with tricky time-signatures and intricate themes” BBC Music Magazine "this is a genuine trio, with three equally important parts, and they never put a foot or finger wrong" 5 stars! All About Jazz “one of the most exciting trios in contemporary music”.
"intelligent and sometimes moodily reflective, but always in touch with their jazz origins. Foran's piano style is brimful of ideas applied equally well to ballads and up-tempo pieces" - 4* The Australian “So many surprises and exquisite moments” - The Age. "A fine example of contemporary music in various tempos, incorporating a range of moods and drawing extensively on diverse classical references fused with 21st century jazz ideas". - The Australian