Pianist Glenn Doig proudly releases his debut album, “Trio,” featuring Brett Hirst on bass and Simon Barker on drums. Released through Earshift Music, the album showcases eight original compositions that capture the evolution of Doig’s artistic voice over two decades within the timeless format of the jazz piano trio.
“Trio” offers a range of musical moods, reflecting Doig’s influences while carving out a distinct identity that is unmistakably his own. Each composition is a study in balance, with concise forms and strong melodies guiding the listener through sophisticated harmonic and rhythmic landscapes. From contemplative ballads to intricate, high-energy textures, the album reflects Doig’s deliberate and unhurried approach to musical development.
The collaboration with Brett Hirst and Simon Barker, two of Australia’s most respected musicians, has been a pivotal experience for Doig. “Having musicians as expressive and musically sympathetic as Brett and Simon involved in this project allowed me to connect with the material in a fresh way,” Doig shares. “The effortless rapport between us is as central to the recording as the compositions themselves.”
Glenn Doig, a graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium, has been a fixture in the Sydney jazz scene for over a decade. His previous work includes leading the Doig Collective and the Doig Big Band. His work has been recognized on a national level, including a recording for ABC Jazz’s “Thursday Night Live” and a commission for the Sydney International Women’s Jazz Festival.
The album “Trio” marks a significant milestone in Doig’s career, bringing together years of musical exploration and collaboration. “This project is nostalgic for me, as it presents my favorite compositions written over 20 years,” says Doig. “These songs evoke bittersweet moods, blending tonality with singable melodic fragments that are reframed in unexpected ways. The trio format has allowed me to reconnect with the piano and explore its sonic possibilities in a deeply personal way.”
Out 1 November on Earshift Music.