Triune

Multi-instrumentalist and composer Nicholas Payton assembles a trio with bassist/vocalist esperanza spalding and drummer Karriem Riggins on TRIUNE, which also features guest appearances by Ivan Neville, Erica Falls, Nikki Glaspie, and Otis McDonald. There is no shortage of remarkable trios in the musical landscape, but few, besides the pathbreaking trumpet player, keyboardist, and composer Nicholas Payton, could bring together three true visionaries and synergize them into one singular creative voice. That’s just what Payton has done with TRIUNE, his exhilarating new album. “TRIUNE means ‘three in one,’ which is exactly how this trio functions,” Payton explains. “Each of us is a leader in our own right, but together we combine to form a unified sound.” Always an incisive judge of talent, Payton sings the praises of both musicians. “Karriem has the distinction of being not only one of the most accomplished and sought-after drummers in the straight-ahead scene, but also equally in demand as a beatmaker and producer. Many try to straddle that fence, but no one does it as convincingly as Karriem. esperanza has always had an energy that elevates any situation she’s in. Whether it’s her presence on bass, vocals, or just her overall artistry, she radiates something that reaches people’s hearts in a way I’ve never seen before.” Nicholas Payton, esperanza spalding, and Karriem Riggins are three of the most distinctive and innovative minds in modern creative music. On TRIUNE, they speak with one singular, utterly captivating and joyous voice.