There is something fitting about an instrumental project called “Serenity” not trying too hard to impress you.
Across three tracks, Rency keeps things simple. Piano, drums, bass and warm horn arrangements do most of the work, and rather than crowding the songs with unnecessary ideas, he gives every instrument enough room to breathe. The result is ten minutes of jazz and lo-fi that feels made for slowing down.
“Jazzman” establishes that mood immediately. Its piano and rhythm section settle into an easy groove, while the horn becomes the real centre of the record. It is the sort of song that could easily soundtrack a quiet bar at the end of the day, or an evening when you simply want something playing without demanding too much from you. The lead horn is especially good, drifting over the production instead of fighting it.
“Calm” is even more restrained. The drums are soft, the piano carries most of the melody and a brief jazz-led instrumental hook gives the song its strongest moment. Nothing about the production is loud, but that is exactly the point. It understands the value of repetition when the groove is good enough.
The closing track, “No Worry,” is perhaps the best representation of what Rency is trying to achieve. Even its title feels like an instruction. The softer saxophone, loose drums and mellow keys give the record the feeling of relief. There is no urgency here.
At just over ten minutes, Serenity is short, uncomplicated and very easy to live with. Sometimes that is enough.
Listen to “Serenity” Here
