Matt Davis' Aerial Photograph

jazz

Matt Davis has established himself as a solid behind-the-scenes guy on Philly's adventurous music scene. The guitarist and recent Temple alum plays regularly in the Chance Trio and Bobby Zankel's Warriors of the Wonderful Sound, both bands frequent fliers at Tritone. His Aerial Photograph began as a conventional jazz rhythm section and evolved into something larger and considerably stranger. On this gig, the group will feature as many as a dozen musicians in a loose chamber configuration, complete with string quartet. At its best, this music is multilayered and gently provocative; at its worst, it outpaces its own airy pretensions. But Davis has stocked the bandstand with some undeniable talent from his own generation, including saxophonist Brian Woestehoff, trumpeter Bart Miltenberger and bassist Mike Taylor. Davis, already a distinctive guitarist, is clearly still developing his voice as a leader and composer. And as Martha used to say, it's a good thing.

Sun., April 4, 7 p.m., $10, Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St., 215-928-0978.

—Nate Chinen

-- Respond to this article in our Forums -- click to jump there