Zettalogue is a lively and upbeat collection of seven original pieces by jazz pianist/composer Ivo Neame and is his tenth album under his own name. Neame is recognized by audiences as well as critics as one of the finest pianists on the Contemporary European jazz scene and is known for his impressive contributions to the genre with Kairos Quartet, Phronesis, and Marius Neset, to name a few. On Zettalogue, Neame is joined by British jazz musicians Tom Farmer on double bass, James Maddren on drums and percussion, and George Crowley on tenor sax. If you are looking for music to fall asleep to, this album probably won't work for you, but the amazing spirit and musicianship of Neame and company can certainly transport you to a place of freedom and optimism.

Three years in the making, Zettalogue includes new original compositions as well as fresh interpretations of older pieces. A few of the tracks were released as singles before the full album. Known for his in-depth explorations of complex rhythms and meters from around the world, Neame's music includes influences from Karnatic music (South Indian classical music), Hip-Hop and West African music as well as his artistic curiosity to craft intricate and energetic frameworks for his compositions.

In addition to composing and performing, Neame is an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music, an Associate Member of PRS and a Professor of Jazz Piano at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He is also a member of the Featured Artists’ Coalition and the Ivors Academy Jazz Committee.

Zettalogue begins with "The Rise of the Lizard People," a lively, free-spirited piece with a playful demeanor and a powerful delivery. "Drone Yer Sorrows" again demonstrates Neame's lightning-fast fingers on the piano keyboard while the other three band members add their own swirling touches and musical magic. The title track is a high-energy exploration that gives all four artists their own moments in the spotlight. "Pala" slows the tempo considerably to a more soulful ballad style. Don't get me wrong - there are still plenty of musical fireworks, especially near the end! "Être sur le Train de Gravy" adds an element of funk to the mix and gives it a very impressive groove. "Personent Hodie" is based on a Medieval Christmas carol that Neame used to sing in choirs in his youth. I don't hear too much of a singable melody in this arrangement, but those familiar with the carol will undoubtedly be able to pick it out. Very lively and free, it's an always-interesting reworking of the carol. "The Trouble With Faith" begins with an extended piano solo that is slow and thoughtful with some sparkling runs on the piano keyboard before the other three musicians enter. Much slower and more minimal, the bass takes the spotlight for part of the piece which then becomes something of a dialogue between the bass and piano. Very soulful and calming from start to finish, this is my favorite track on the album!

Zettalogue is on Amazon (download, CD, streaming), and Apple Music/iTunes as well as many streaming platforms including Pandora and Spotify. Check it out!