Misha Mullov-Abbado fires up Kings Place for Effra album launch

Double bassist Misha Mullov-Abbado has a clear affinity for the sounds and rhythms of old-school bebop, a classic sound which he tastefully sprinkles with a pinch of post-bop spice. This gig at Hall One, Kings Place marked the live launch of his latest release, Effra, and showcased a setlist packed with tight, original compositions. Leading a sextet fronted by three horns – alto, tenor, and trumpet – Mullov-Abbado impressed with his ability to unlock the lineup’s full textural and harmonic range.

The opening tune ‘The Effra Parade’ immediately set the tone for the evening – melodic, quirky, and full of rhythmic momentum. This was followed by ‘Traintracker’, a rootsy post-bop composition built around a syncopated piano vamp, shuffling groove, and a snappy unison horn line. The infectious groove laid down here by Liam Dunachie on piano and Scott Chapman on drums allowed each musician’s personality to shine. Tom Smith’s alto sax was compelling from the start, his phrasing agile and inventive. Sam Rapley’s tenor provided a fascinating contrast as a deeper, more gritty voice which was particularly effective when showcasing his rootsy Lester Young-inspired melodic phrasing. Trumpeter James Davison completed the frontline trio of horns, his playing crisp, lively, and intelligent.   

The unrecorded tune ‘Popcorn, Incense & Mary Jane’ painted an affectionate musical portrait of Brixton and evoked the feeling of sensory overload. ‘Nanban’ demonstrated the quintet’s ability to evoke a more a softer, more introspective atmosphere. The sextet closed with ‘Lock, Stock & Shuffle’, a bluesy tune that affirmed the wonderful chemistry and technical brilliance – a fitting finale that harked back to a bygone era of bebop blowing sessions.