“Meridian Steps” by PRIM is a captivating and eclectic musical journey that showcases the Vienna-based trio’s unique blend of influences and styles. Drawing inspiration from jazz greats like the Esbjörn Svensson Trio, classical luminaries like Johann Sebastian Bach, and folk cultures from around the world, PRIM’s sound is a delightful mix of modern jazz, funk, soul, and western classical music.
The album opens with “Clarity,” a track that alternates between lively and upbeat to slower and more reflective, featuring passages of spoken word. This sets the stage for the rest of the album, which is characterized by heavily affected bass tones, the warm organic timbre of a cello, lush synthesizers, and propulsive drum grooves. The intricate compositions and airtight arrangements take the listener on an exciting journey through PRIM’s eclectic musical minds, with dramatic changes in energy, time, and tonality.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Trails,” which starts with a dark organ and bass duet that gradually picks up energy and transitions into a funk/rock groove. Another highlight is “Frederic Being Oddly Numeric,” which showcases the trio’s ability to blend classical influences with modern jazz sensibilities.
“Meridian Steps” is a testament to PRIM’s talent for crafting a sound that is uniquely their own. The album is a must-listen for fans of genre-blending music that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz.