LRK Trio – Prayer (Magnetophone Music, 2022)
Based in Moscow, LRK Trio is a forward-thinking jazz ensemble made up of pianist Evgeny Lebedev, bassist Anton Revnyuk, and drummer Ignat Kravtsov. While rooted in the classic piano trio format, the group distinguishes itself through inventive arrangements, modern elements borrowed from trip hop and other influences, and subtle nods to Russian musical heritage.
Their superb, captivating album Prayer, released internationally on Norway’s Losen Records, gained traction across Europe and Asia. It appeared on the Europe Jazz Media Chart, earned the Special Jury Award at the Made in New York Jazz Competition (judged by Lenny White, Mike Stern, and Randy Brecker). Moreover, it led to tours spanning Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Switzerland, Portugal, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S.
Despite their impressive technical precision, LRK constructs accessible, dazzling music that focuses on melody, dynamic interplay, and emotional depth. Their music intertwines conventional acoustic jazz with cutting edge electronics, contemporary samples, and western classical chamber elements like string quartets or guest soloists. The result is a mesmerizing sound chaptalized by harmonic density, evolving grooves, and strong melodic presence. Indeed, 21st-century jazz with a distinctive Russian accent.
Musicians: Evgeny Lebedev on piano; Anton Revnyuk on bass; and Ignat Kravtsov on drums.
Buy Prayer.