Album Review: “Are U Free” by Adam Nolan, Brian Kastan and James Paul Nadien

Oddly, this album crossed my desk while I was thinking about the current state of jazz in Ireland and how the genre deserves a higher profile.  It’s a very interesting offering from prolific Irish alto sax player and rapper, Adam Nolan and made in collaboration with bassist/guitarist Brian Kastan and drummer James Paul Nadien.  The style of the album is eclectic but very much rooted in free jazz. The band’s press notes refer to their style as “Punk Jazz”. A pretty accurate description.  Adam’s alto playing varies between (relatively) melodic hard bop, as on the tracks “This Way”  and “Wars” to all out freestyle on “No More Fear” and “What’s the Issue”. The last two tracks have a raw texture that exceeds anything by avant garde pathfinders Ornette Coleman or Marshall Fielding (Sun Ra Arkestra) but approach some of the wilder offerings of Shabaka Hutchings (particularly with The Comet is Coming trio) or even Nik Turner’s original work with Hawkwind.

Brian Kastan contibutes to the turbulent sonic soundscape with bass lines that vary from an early Kinks vibe on “Can’t Conform” to exuberant heterophonic improvisation with Nolan on “Wars”. Mostly though, he keeps a somewhat low profile and perhaps a little more presence would be in order on future projects. James Paul Nadien from the New York City free jazz scene does a great job on drums and drives all the tunes powerfully and sympathetically. He works extremely well with Nolan’s voice and interplays nicely with Kastan’s bass on “Fate” -perhaps my favorite track of the album.

Overall this album is a fine accomplishment. Both cutting edge and a showcase for contemporary Irish jazz.  I realise that the musicians are from international backgrounds but to my ears, Nolan’s voice provides a strong Irish identity.  I highly recommend a listen -just don’t expect bebop licks or cocktail lounge mood music!

John Morrow