Reedist Chris Speed with drummer Dave King amounts to a connection to The Bad Plus here given Speed's presence in the band in recent years. And the trio continue a recording narrative last heard together on Respect For Your Toughness, an album that included a version of 1930s song 'Can This Be Love' later covered by Sun Ra. Double bassist and second Chris - Chris Tordini - completes the line-up found on this 8-track exploration and latest update on the trio. You will find the title track nestled in the middle. Tracks (these are all by Speed this time around) range in length from just under four minutes to a shade over 5-and-a-half. So it's not at all as verbose as some recordings can turn out. The trio excel in the slow burn - no advantage for Speedy boarding, as it were, at all applies given the tempi choice and thoughtfulness exhibited throughout. Recorded in a New York studio last summer Despite Obstacles develops its own knotty intensity. And when you venture beyond the individual themes King consistently proves disciplined and in full control. I'm sure that I'd get even more of a kick out of this live - in a small club 'Sunset Park in July' would probably provide a special moment or two. Because that long night's journey into day sense lifts it above everything here and needs listeners there in the flesh in front of it. SG

l-r: Dave King, Chris Speed, Chris Tordini, photo: via Big Fish booking