Noah Franche-Nolan’s great grandmother was an organist. She was called Rose-Anna Chassée, from Grand Falls in New Brunswick. The album Rose-Anna is, as you might have already guessed, a tribute from pianist Franche-Nolan to this lady. We are not surprised either to hear the Vancouver-based musician occasionally play the organ on this elegant, intelligent, sometimes energetically wilful opus. With Judo Proznick on bass and Nicholas Bracewell on drums, Franche-Nolan paints a rich, idea-filled portrait of a personal universe that mixes propulsive contemporary jazz, cultural references to Acadia and a beautiful exploration of belonging, spirituality and attachment. Some particularly strong moments: Haxan with its dramatic force that has something uplifting about it, and creates a powerful emotional impact thanks to its sumptuous melody and almost hymnal harmonies. Also, Hawks, who swings with conviction a determined and irresistible groove.
An exciting release.
