This Was Then is the ninth album from pianist/composer Erik Deutsch. Possibly best-known for his work with The Black Crowes, Erik re-enlisted his long-time New York sextet for this project: Tony Mason (drums), Jeff Hill (bass), Avi Bortnick (drums), Mike McGinnis (reeds) and Brian Drye (trombone). The album also features guest appearances by Mauro Refosco (percussion on two tracks) and Victoria Reed (vocals on one track). Overall, I would say that This Was Then would fit into the jazz genre or category, but although jazz covers a very large musical territory, this album goes beyond just one genre to include blues, rock, funk, cinematic, and so much more. It’s one of those albums that reveals new layers and surprises with each listen and takes you on a musical adventure. The eight tracks on the album are all originals and the recording is obviously the product of a group of musicians who understand each other and create music together seamlessly. I like this quote: “It’s music - made by a musician who cares and a group of talented folks who get it.”

This Was Then begins with “Saddest Day in Paradise,” a piece that features Deutsch on vintage keyboards, along with acoustic bass, drums, horn and guitar. Not really sad at all - which is probably the point! - it’s a fascinating opener that will draw you in for more! The title track goes much darker and features Brazilian percussionist Mauro Refosco. Slow and mysterious from start to finish, a variety of themes are woven together to tell an intriguing story - I really like this one! “Immortals” is a piece in two distinct movements. The first showcases Deutsch’s very impressive piano chops along with Refosco’s percussion and McGinnis’ alto flute. The second goes in an entirely different direction that is funky and fun. Just try sitting still with this one! “Memory” is the only vocal piece on the album, but it’s a standout with Victoria Reed’s soulful vocals backed by piano, alto flute, and drums. “Neon Blue” is my favorite track on the album! Bluesy and soulful with some funky horns, it’s a great example of music that is fun to play as well as to listen and groove to. At a bit over 7 1/2 minutes, it’s very easy to lose yourself in this one! I love the piano blues and be sure to check out the trombone solo by Brian Drye! “Snake Alley” has a film noir vibe, but is actually a tribute to the spectacular cliffs on the Northern California coast. The acoustic bass solo adds a touch of intrigue. “Pretty Pigeon” picks the tempo back up with a lively, free-flowing piano backed by some of the band. As the piece progresses, it calms and slows, returning to the original theme near the end. The album comes to a close with “Invisible Temples,” a group improvisation that moves in several directions with an easy-going flow and a variety of styles and genres. Great stuff!

This Was Then is available from Erik’s site on vinyl; on Amazon on vinyl, to download or stream; to download or stream on Apple Music/iTunes; and on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Check it out!