The debut album from the Mike Block Trio is a long time coming, while the connection between these three unique musicians has been deepening for over a decade in various collaborations and configurations. Led by cello player, singer, and composer, Mike Block, who has been hailed as “one of the bravest, most intriguing musicians on the American fusion scene” by Gramophone Magazine, the trio features Joe K. Walsh (mandolin/vocals) and Zachariah Hickman (bass/vocals). Their first album as a trio features mostly original music, composed during the pandemic. The album oscillates between intimate meditations and burning improvisational virtuosity, explored through both original songs and instrumentals. There is also a sensitive reinterpretation of a Baroque Sarabande, and playful versions of tunes from Jamaica, Brazil, and a Bluegrass standard for good measure.