Weird Life is the third studio album from the French jazz group, Etienne Manchon Trio. Consisting of award-winning pianist/composer Etienne Manchon, Clément Daldosso (double bass) and Théo Moutou (drums), the eleven tracks on the album serve as the band's ode to all of the odd and unpredictable aspects of a musician's life on the road. With musical bonds that have developed over a decade, Manchon and Moutou have been playing together since their university days. Their projects have varied widely, with genres from classical to metal. Daldosso made it a trio in 2016 for a one-off project, but the natural chemistry the emerged with the three artists made it a longer-term formation. In addition to the three albums (including this one), the Trio has released two EPs and has performed extensively around France. Ten of the eleven pieces on the album were composed by Etienne Manchon, and the closing track, "Iris," was composed by Wayne Shorter. In addition to the piano, Manchon performs on Rhodes and a variety of other keyboards, creating a range of different voices for his eclectic music. Most of the tracks are upbeat and vibrant, but a few cool things down a bit and demonstrate the versatility of these three very impressive musicians.

Weird Life begins with "Regard Noir," a bright, high-energy piece that has Etienne Manchon on keyboard/synth with a number of effects and voices that make it sound like a bigger ensemble than a trio! The drums and bass also figure very prominently on this one. "Askja" refers to a volcano in Iceland and is performed with Etienne on piano, but not just the keys - strings are strummed in a few places, too! Vibrant and dynamic, you won't fall asleep to this one! "C'est bientôt mon anniversaire" begins with a mysterious bass solo before some spooky keyboard effects and strummed piano strings enter. The drums are in there, too, but are more subtle on this track. The title translates as "it's almost my birthday," which seems like a joke with such a dark piece of music. "Road Trip" is a favorite and has Etienne on keyboards this time. Daldosso plays a pizzicato solo that proves how effective bass can be when carrying the lead. This piece feels like a slow dance until near the end when Etienne pulls out all of the stops. On "Seshipo," he returns to the piano for another favorite. A bit quieter with a mysterious cast, it seems to be a musical dialogue for piano and bass, although the drums are also very effective. Near the middle of the piece, the tempo and energy-level pick up and the music really takes off! I really like this one! "Early Flight" combines piano, vocalizations, and keyboard effects and sounds with bass and drums on a track that is smooth and relaxed - beautifully done! "Big Up Catherine" finds Etienne on both piano and keyboards, grooving with the other two musicians on a piece a little too energetic to call smooth jazz but that expresses an easy kind of joy. Weird Life closes with Wayne Shorter's "Iris," a beautiful tribute to the American jazz saxophonist, composer and bandleader who passed away in 2023 at the age of 89 - a great way to end an exceptional album!

Weird Life will be released on January 24, 2025. More links will be added as they become available. It will also be available on CD on Amazon on February 14, 2025. Check it out!