THREE – Darren Pickering Small Worlds

The third release from Ōtautahi-based quartet Darren Pickering Small Worlds builds on the thoughtful foundations laid by their previous two albums. THREE presents a refined evolution in their sound—balancing structure and improvisation while integrating modular synthesis in subtle, considered ways. The result is a jazz-forward album that’s exploratory without being meandering, and textured without relying on studio artifice.

Led by pianist and composer Darren Pickering, the group’s interplay continues to be one of its strongest features. Jono Blackie (drums), Pete Fleming (bass), and Heather Webb (guitar) contribute equally to the feel and direction of each track. Their collective sense of space allows complex harmonic ideas to unfold with clarity, and the occasional use of electronic processing adds depth without overwhelming the acoustic core.

Tracks like “Soft Life” bring modular synth textures to the forefront, pairing them with melodic piano phrases in a way that feels intentional and cohesive. Others, like “Tauhou Waltz” and “Taylor Time,” showcase the ensemble’s ability to shift between composed themes and looser improvisations, with Webb’s guitar playing offering a thoughtful counterpoint to Pickering’s piano lines.

Each track has its own identity, with a sense of restraint and clarity running through the album. “What If” leans more traditional in its instrumentation but still benefits from the group’s detailed dynamic control.

The album would feel at home in the context of visual storytelling—its mood-driven compositions and textural range would fit well in contemporary cinema or narrative video games, especially those dealing with internal landscapes or understated drama.

THREE doesn’t chase novelty. Instead, it deepens the group’s language: flexible, and modern. It’s a strong entry from Rattle, a label consistently known for supporting music that’s serious about exploration without losing its emotional footing.