The TriCeraphClops, the latest offering from the RAAR Trio, led by composer and guitarist Ari Joshua, and featuring Ray Paczkowski on keys and Russ Lawton on drums, is another mesmerizing journey through the realms of psychedelic jazz fusion and soulful grooves. The trio, well-known for their individual contributions to the arts, have come together once again to create a sound that is as eclectic as it is cohesive, blending their diverse influences into a powerful sonic experience.
The track kicks off with a cerebral guitar riff from Ari Joshua, accompanied by astral keys and a dynamic, psychedelic edge that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. Joshua’s guitar work here is not just technically proficient, but emotionally and spiritually charged, delivering a sound that feels both grounded and otherworldly. The interplay between the guitar and Paczkowski’s organ creates a swirling atmosphere that feels like a cosmic trip, anchored by Lawton’s precise yet fluid drumming.
The chemistry between the trio is palpable, exemplified by their vibrant, psychedelic energy. The song is a romp through spacey soundscapes, driven by Lawton’s tight rhythms and Paczkowski’s intricate organ melodies. The trio’s ability to play off each other’s strengths is evident, as they weave complex patterns that are both engaging and unpredictable.
The TriCeraphClops stands as a testament to the trio’s synergy, and virtuosity. The track showcases their ability to create music that is both complex and accessible, blending diverse musical elements into a cohesive and engaging listening experience. Whether you’re a fan of psychedelic jazz fusion, soulful grooves, or experimental soundscapes, the RAAR Trio‘s latest release has something authentic to offer.
Ray Paczkowski and Russ Lawton are no strangers to the North-East music scene, having been long-time stalwarts of the Trey Anastasio Band, where their rhythmic synergy has become legendary. Their tight-knit musical partnership extends beyond TAB, as they are also the driving forces behind the bands LaMP and Soule Monde. In LaMP, a trio project with guitarist Scott Metzger, Paczkowski and Lawton explore a more stripped-down, raw sound, showcasing their deep connection and intuitive musical communication. Soule Monde, their other prominent project, dives deep into the realms of jazz-funk, with Paczkowski’s organ and Lawton’s drums creating a groove that is both hypnotic and irresistible. Their work together across these bands has solidified them as key figures in the Northeast’s vibrant music community, and their collaboration with Ari Joshua in the RAAR Trio feels like a natural extension of their shared musical journey.
Complementing the music of the RAAR Trio is the spiritual and ancestral artwork created by Martin Ontiveros for The TriCeraphClops. Ontiveros, known for his vivid and evocative art, captures the essence of the trio’s sound with his mystical illustration. The artwork not only mirrors the psychedelic and soulful vibes of the music but also connects deeply with the spiritual and ancestral themes that Ari Joshua and his bandmates explore in their compositions. Ontiveros’ art serves as a visual gateway into the trio’s sonic universe, enhancing the listener’s experience by adding a layer of visual storytelling that is as compelling and intricate as the music itself. This collaboration between the RAAR Trio and Ontiveros underscores the holistic nature of their project, where music and art come together to create a truly immersive experience.
Ari Joshua, with his extensive background and collaborations with industry luminaries, brings a level of expertise and creativity to the RAAR Trio that is evident in every note. The EP is a celebration of musical exploration, with each track offering a new perspective on the trio’s unique sound. From the soulful tributes to the experimental soundscapes, The TriCeraphClops is a must-listen for those of us interested in the evolving landscape of modern music.
We have added The TriCeraphClops to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS and TRIPPY playlists, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of the the RAAR Trio and anticipate the upcoming unveiling of their EP in full!