Debut albums are always particularly memorable when crafted by a whole team of talented musicians. This is the case with the self-titled debut album by The Carrie Armitage Quartet, which immediately captivates with its unique blend of complex genres including Rock, Pop, Fusion Jazz, and Ambient. After working on solo projects, the gifted musician Carrie Armitage (Piano, Keys & Vocals) decided to create something new and monumental—a sound that always sits at the crossroads of genres, making it uniquely appealing.

photo by @carriearmitagemusic

The work on the album began with two talented musicians, Carrie Armitage and Gary Craig (Drums & Percussion), before other key musicians joined them: Brian May and Bob McAlpine (Guitars), and Mitch Starkman (Bass). Gary Craig crafted the rhythm kits and everything necessary for the arrangements, laying the foundation for the album’s inception and development, marking the beginning of a significant effort. This initial step served as the inspiration point for Carrie Armitage, who brought his emotive keys, piano, and flawless vocals to the album’s sound.

I love how in the album almost all the space is dedicated to the refined and sensual play of the musicians. “The Carrie Armitage Quartet” is an outstanding collection featuring 15 tracks that redefine genre boundaries and create a new universe of sounds. Thanks to the careful crafting of the atmosphere, this album falls into the category of cinematic and subconscious-oriented listening experiences. I am confident that you will feel the creative synergy, inspiration, and absolute chemistry between the musicians while listening to the album.

From the opening notes of “Ambient Orbit,” the album establishes a high standard in sound and quality. Each track creates a unique atmosphere, allowing the energy to flow smoothly throughout, much like a gently winding stream. This seamless flow is supported by Gary Craig’s impeccable drumming, present on every track except “Figsments.” On “Figsments,” guest drummer David Quinton takes over, injecting a distinct dynamism into the mix. It’s impressive how each track highlights the individual strengths of the musicians involved in the album’s creation.

In tracks like “Planet 9,” “Orbit L2,” and “Figs,” Brian May’s flawless groove rock guitar immediately injects a fiery spark into the sound, adding entirely new details. It’s worth noting the impressive shift in tone and mood in “Long Shadows” and “The Heartbeat Potential.” These tracks shine particularly brightly and flow effortlessly, thanks to Bob McAlpine’s unique and intricate guitar solos. The contributions of these outstanding guitarists are crucial to the overall sound. Their unique perspectives and their feel for music have infused the album with new layers of complexity and auditory delight that demand repeated listening.

photo by @carriearmitagemusic

Listening to “The Carrie Armitage Quartet,” it’s impossible not to notice the bass parts masterfully executed by Mitch Starkman. In music, the bass is crucial—remove the bass guitar from any song, and it loses its soul! Starkman’s play is not only consistently superb, but it also adds a heartbeat to the sound, warm and always palpable. If you close your eyes and let a track like “The Crystal Forest” fill your mind, you will immediately feel such pure and crystalline bass guitar that it becomes irresistible. The musician’s skill particularly shines in his amazing solos in tracks like “The Heartbeat Potential” and “As the Crow Flies.” Mitch Starkman’s performance is a pure embodiment of talent, forming a solid foundation for the album’s complex musical structure.

But of course, the true highlight of the album is Carrie Armitage herself. Her keyboard playing serve as the connective thread among all the musicians, binding the songs together amidst a whirlpool of sounds. Carrie’s vocals are something truly special—at times unusual, but incredibly captivating. It’s more like improvisation than lyrical singing, and it creates an amazing vibe. Her presence brings all the different musical elements together and gives the album a seamless and coherent feel.

The Carrie Armitage Quartet didn’t just stick to their own sound for their latest release; they also brought in special guests to add a unique spark. A standout feature of the album is Laura Disenhaus’s exquisite flute performance on “Star Men.” Her playing gives the track a whimsical vibe. This collaboration brings a new dimension to the album, highlighting the Quartet’s ability to merge different musical styles.

Finally, I’d like to add that from the first track to the last, you’re entering a new universe of sound. Reflecting the concept of the album’s cover, where a kaleidoscope of colors represents a multitude of influences, it creates a cohesive picture that beckons further exploration, revealing something new each time. “The Carrie Armitage Quartet” unveils the boundless talent of each member and, of course, unites them. This is an incredibly soulful work, the result of a deep, almost invisible understanding among the musicians. It feels like each artist not only contributes but also elevates the ideas of their colleagues, creating a stronger and more enthralling collective energy. Only music can speak such a profound language, and in “The Carrie Armitage Quartet,” the musicians have reached an incredibly high standard. Exceptional! This album is a must-listen for anyone seeking innovative musical experiences that cross genres and exceed expectations.

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