“Sprung” tackles pleasure with taut exactitude. The light tapping of Nemeth’s drums guides the bouncy track but never ensnares it on its own elation. Indeed, Irwin’s musicians play havoc with one another here and seem to be having a whole lot of fun doing it. The track is engaging and convincing in its glee.
The album’s opening track, “Like the Sunshine,” matches its title faultlessly and greets the listener like the dawn. Supple percussion introduces the alto sax, giving the song progression with intelligibility.
Blood and Thunder is a courageous and crisp jazz record. It is appealing, absorbing, and affectionate. Irwin’s command over the music is immaculate, as he leads his group through his harmonious universe with the style and grace of a truly great musician. His original compositions are astonishing in their beauty and his work with a pair of classics is similarly stunning.
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