'Hindrances' features eight original tracks that take you on an imaginary journey to the top of a mountain. It's all based on introspection, with calm and thought-provoking feelings. The album is mainly jazz with chamber music, reminiscent of legends like Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, and Brad Mehldau.
'Hindrances' is the first and the title track in this album. It starts by following a strict pattern that transforms into variable phases of communicative notation. It keeps a balanced mix of complex and simplified structures and pieces, ending just as it began. It is melodic, mixing detailed arrangements with improv and exploring everything from sad to uplifting emotions.
On the other hand, 'One Mile of Walking' is more of a slow, calming almost soothing composition. Keeping it short and sweet, it stays not too far from its core a repeated tune while being beautifully altered through variations that feel heavily improvised. Well, that's the beauty of jazz itself, as well as Pedro's style, which manages to mix modern jazz with lyrical elements, a hint of classical influence, and some energetic grooves.
While Pedro Neves on piano is the main artist, you also get to hear Miguel Ângelo on double bass and José Marrucho on drums. The music they create together brings even more dynamism and motion to the rest of the tracks on this album.
Having played and performed together for years, their chemistry is palpable, full of playfulness and deep understanding. There's a relaxed and effortless feel to their music that highlights the idea that less can be more.