RON CARTER TRIO AUSTRALIAN PREMIER

It’s an instrument that doesn’t solo easily, won’t amplify well and can barely be heard on most stereos if the conditions aren’t just right. It’s a bulky 7 foot tall wooden statue that, in the majority of its applications, demands of its player a certain humility, subtlety and musical altruism – a willingness to sit back an fill in the gaps. But Ron Carter has made a name for himself in transcending the apparent limitations of the acoustic double bass – indeed he is one of the few remaining legendary jazz bassists from the era that pushed the boundaries and opened the gate to a new world of freedom and improvisation. Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock and McCoy Tyner make up but a peppercorn of the 2,500 odd albums that Carter has featured on, which include a famous collaboration with ‘90s hip hop legends A Tribe Called Quest on their influential Low End Theory.

This will be Ron Carter’s first trip to Australia, and after half a century of music from the jazz giant, it’s a visit long overdue. Accompanying Carter in his trio are guitarist Russel Malone and pianist Mulgrew Miller – both celebrated jazz figures in their own right. The absence of a drummer in this outfit is a departure from convention in the jazz setting, especially for a bass player, whose relationship and rapport with the drums is pivotal to his effectiveness in that role – a hint at Carter’s strength as a player that he might take on those rhythmic responsibilities in a trio situation.

Opening act Elixir are no small fries either, with vocal queen Katie Noonan leading the impressive trio with esteemed guitarist Steve Magnusson and jazz saxophonist Zac Hurren – not to be missed.

Jun 12, 8pm, The Basement, 29 Reiby Place, Circular Quay, $45+BF, 9251 2797, thebasement.com.au