Changes “Emanuele Cisi” - Small Changes (2001)

The instrumentation of saxophone and rhythm can be so humdrum that any new view from the mainstream through these lenses, however modest, is cause for rejoicing. The proof here is in the nuance, as there is almost always something brewing that catches the ear. The stamp of pianist Stefano Battaglia is found all over this engaging and sensitive set of original pieces performed by the Italian quartet calling itself Changes. Battaglia is the best-known member of the group, and while the resulting music is clearly a collective effort, several numbers (particularly the three he contributed) evidence a thoughtful, circumspect approach that reflect his personality. In some ways, some of the pieces on the album sound the way pianist Bill Evans might have sounded if he had added a saxophonist to his trios, though the interplay on the instant CD is not so radical. Emanuele Cisi's laid-back saxophone fits perfectly; even when the pace quickens, as, for example, on the bluesy "The Gambler," Cisi offers a somewhat distant, appealingly exotic feel. At least one of his two compositions, "Ravaise," though thoughtful, is less impressive than his playing. On the slower pieces, drummer Fabrizio Serra and bassist Piero Leveratto engage in the difficult task of keeping the momentum going, although on the more upbeat numbers, such as the vigorously lilting "The Happy Violone," everyone, including the usually more reticent Battaglia, marches aggressively, with considerable success. ~ by Steve Loewy, AMG. 

Splasc(H) Records, CDH 733.2, 2001
Recorded 11th, 12th, 13th September, 1999 at Artesuono Recording Studio, Cavalicco, Italy 

Musicians:
Emanuele Cisi - Tenor Saxophone
Stefano Battaglia - Piano
Piero Leveratto - Bass
Fabrizio Sferra - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Mater {Stefano Battaglia} (4:52)
2. Small Changes {Piero Leveratto} (9:41)
3. Endurance {Emanuele Cisi} (7:26)
4. The Happy Violone {Piero Leveratto} (4:51)
5. Divenire {Stefano Battaglia} (7:56)
6. The Gambler {Piero Leveratto} (7:19)
7. Trovarsi {Stefano Battaglia} (8:58)
8. More Changes {Cisi, Battaglia, Leveratto, Sferra} (5:16)
9. Ravalse {Emanuele Cisi} (6:57) 

Total Time: 63:20 

Credits:
Producer - Changes
Sound Engineer - Stefano Amerio
Cover [Forme Nello Spazio] - Giuliano Romano
Graphic Design - Luigi Naro
Liner Notes [English Texts] - Pete Kercher
Liner Notes [Italian] - Davide Ielmini
Photography - Piero Ottaviano

Emanuele Cisi Quartet - An Homage [Sonny Rollins] From Italy (2001)

Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins is an American tenor saxophonist and composer whose eight-decade career has led him from Harlem to the White House and all over the world, and who is considered one of the most influential musicians in jazz. He has had an integral influence on most current and emerging tenor saxophonists and Emanuele Cisi is no exception and hence Cisi for this album pays homage to the great master. Emanuele was born in Torino, Italy, in 1964. A self-taught musician, he is one of the most representative voices in the European jazz scene. His unique tone, mixed with intimate knowledge of tradition and a personal taste for composition, has become a landmark for jazz lovers. In an interview Sonny states "I'm not just avant-garde, I'm not just straight ahead, I'm not just sentimental, I'm all of these things. And I'm trying to get them together, because they’re part of me. That's what I want to portray in a coherent style." ~ by Phil Freeman, 2009. In many ways Cisi has molded his own career along these lines and therefore is quite at home playing Sonny's music, in particular a number of tunes taken from his extensive library of compositions. For this album Emanuele leads a piano-less quartet backed by guitarist Sandro Gibellini, bassist Dario Deidda and drummer Luigi Bonafede, all major players on the Italian scene and featured on may other albums released on Philology Records. A concise and evocative tribute to Theodore Walter Rollins, Enjoy! 

Philology Records, W 186.2, 2001
Recorded Live at Dr. Sax, Matelica'n Jazz Festival, 20th July, 2000 

Musicians:
Emanuele Cisi - Tenor Saxophone
Sandro Gibellini - Guitar
Dario Deidda - Bass
Luigi Bonafede - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Why Don't I {Sonny Rollins} (10:01)
2. Kids Know {Sonny Rollins} (9:37)
3. Strode Rode {Sonny Rollins} (7:00)
4. Wynton {Sonny Rollins} (5:11)
5. Duke Of Iron {Sonny Rollins} (10:14)
6. Without A Song {Eliscu, Rose, Youmans} (7:42)
7. No More {Sonny Rollins} (12:59)
8. Airegin {Sonny Rollins} (7:47) 

Total Time: 70:35

Steve Turre - TNT (2001)

Steve Turre offers his first quintet project with TNT - Trombone ‘N’ Tenor, an exciting collection of eight compositions dedicated to a select group of jazz elders. Turre plays with three different quintets and is joined by tenor saxophonists James Carter, Dewey Redman and David Sanchez. Turre focuses purely on trombone, a departure from his previous releases that have included his exceptional playing on the conch shells. The ensemble boasts an astonishing repertoire of historic compositions by Stanley Turrentine, Hoagy Carmichael, and Benny Goodman as wells as four originals penned by Steve Turre. Among the highlights are an unforgettable version of "Stompin' At The Savoy" that features Dewey Redman's inimitable sax phrasings and nuance, the eleven minute "Dewey's Dance," a modal tune in ¾ time that captivates you with Stephen Scott's piano elegance, and the technical virtuosity of James Carter and Steve Turre's open-horn plunger orations on "Hallelujah, I Love Her So." Unlike his In The Spur of The Moment recording which featured Turre's mastery of the Ellington-style of muted playing, TNT - Trombone ‘N' Tenor treats listeners to Turre's enjoyable art of the plunger-Basie style. David Sanchez's Afro-Cuban voice proves to be the perfect complement for Turre's clave and horn playing on "Puente of Soul." Together with the percussive fuel played by Giovanni Hidalgo, the ensemble reaches new heights in Turre's repertoire of Afro-Cuban jazz. ~ by Paula Edelstein, AMG. 

Telarc Jazz, CD-63529, 2001
Recorded 9th-10th November, 2000 in Avatar Studio B & C, New York City 

Personnel:
Steve Turre - Trombone, Claves
James Carter - Tenor Saxophone (#1,4-6)
Dewey Redman - Tenor Saxophone (#3,8)
David Sanchez - Tenor Saxophone (#2,3,7,8)
Mulgrew Miller - Piano (#1,4-6)
Stephen Scott - Piano (#2,3,7,8)
Buster Williams - Bass (#1,4-6)
Peter Washington - Bass (#2,3,7,8)
Victor Lewis - Drums (#1,4-6)
Lewis Nash - Drums (#2,3,7,8)
Giovanni Hidalgo - Congas, Timbales, Campana (#2,7) 

Tracks:
1. Back In The Day {Stanley Turrentine} (6:39)
2. Puente Of Soul {Steve Turre} (6:10)
3. Stompin' At The Savoy {Benny Goodman, Edgar Sampson, Chick Webb} (8:12)
4. The Nearness Of You {Hoagy Carmichael} (8:18)
5. Hallelujah, I Love Her So {Ray Charles} (5:00)
6. Eric The Great {Steve Turre} (8:55)
7. E.J. {Stanley Turrentine} (5:11)
8. Dewey's Dance {Steve Turre} (11:04) 

Credits:
Producer - Steve Turre, Myles Weinstein
Executive Producer - Robert Woods
Recording And Mixing Engineer - Robert Friedrich
Technical Assistant - Mark Fraunfelder, Ricardo Fernandez
Editor - Robert Friedrich
Cover Photo - John Abbott
Cover Design - Heidi Kropf, Brian Sooy & Co.
Art Director - Anilda Carrasquillo
Liner Notes - Ted Panken, Downbeat, Jazziz, WKCR

Moutin Réunion Quartet - Sharp Turns (2007)

As the Moutin Réunion Quartet have evolved over five years, their modern mainstream jazz sound has indeed discovered tighter, sharper edges based on their ability to elongate time signatures, dig deep into their expertise as improvisers, and discover a neo-bop signature sound that is as irresistible as any in contemporary music. Tenor saxophonist Rick Margitza has settled into his role as a post-Michael Brecker melodicist, while pianist Pierre DeBethmann is ever formidable and a perfect foil for bassist François Moutin, especially with his left hand working in tandem with the contrabassists pluckings, bowings, and walking. While François aside from this band is quickly becoming a first-call sideman, his twin brother Louis is developing distinct individualism, displaying one of the more unique approaches and styles in the post-bop/Max Roach school of ferocious drumming. You have to witness Louis live to appreciate his uniqueness, but from an audio perspective alone, his talent borders on astonishing, and he also assumes a fierce leadership role as a composer. There's some outstanding, nearly breathtaking music here -- the hip, heavy and enigmatic "Two Hits on the N.J.T.P." which deserves a close listen, the heady, purely modern neo-bop title track loaded with drum flourishes, and the tension and release of "A Good Move," which is a trademark device of the band. A brittle and staggered kinetic funk informs "Kuki's Dance," there's the nimble indirect swing waltz "A Blue Dream," and a tribute, "Trane's Medley," with just bass and drums. Margitza also evokes John Coltrane during the delicate, pensive, artistic ballad "Time Apart." Well on their way to being one of the top working bands in contemporary jazz, the Moutin's have it all goin' on. Please thoroughly check these cats out if you haven't already. ~ by Michael G. Nastos, AMG. 

Nocturne Records, NTCD 4501, 2007
Recorded 19th-24th March, 2007 at Systems Two Studios, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
François Moutin - Acoustic Bass [Upright], Arranger
Louis Moutin - Drums
Rick Margitza - Tenor Saxophone (#1,2,4-8)
Pierre de Bethmann - Piano (#1,2,4-8), Fender Rhodes (#1,2,4,6), Vocals (#1) 

Tracks:
1. The Speech {François Moutin} (6:40)
2. Kuki's Dance {Louis Moutin} (5:57)
3. Trane's Medley {John Coltrane} (4:27)
4. A Good Move {François Moutin} (9:01)
5. Time Apart {François Moutin} (7:49)
6. Two Hits On The N.J.T.P. {Louis Moutin} (6:39)
7. A Blue Dream {Louis Moutin} (6:43)
8. Sharp Turns {François Moutin} (8:38) 

Total Time: 55:59

Credits:
Recording Engineer - Michael Marciano
Recording & Mixing Engineer [Assistant] - Max Ross
Mixing Engineer - Joe Marciano
Mastering Engineer - Raphaël Jonin
Graphic Design - Renaud Barès
Photography - Ursula K

Steve Turre - Lotus Flower (1997)

You might call Lotus Flower an act of relaxation after the strenuous exercise of the Steve Turre album, for Turre reduces forces and idioms to a more-or-less straight-ahead sextet and concentrates almost entirely upon the trombone. In doing so, he re-stakes his claim to being one of the outstanding voices on the trombone of his time, turning some lovely playing on "The Fragrance of Love" and "Sposin'" and some extremely agile bop work at a fleet pace on "Blackfoot" -- to cite two extremes. But this sextet has no ordinary front line; Turre shares the spotlight with a violinist (Regina Carter) and a cellist (Akua Dixon), thus deliberately managing to avoid the trumpet/saxophone axis entirely. Now and then, Turre also throws in a seventh element, Kimati Dinizulu's percussion or Don Conreaux's gong, to add exotic and spiritual flavors to the menu. Carter gets far more swinging time than Dixon on the album -- indeed, Carter's spiritual forefather seems to be Joe Venuti -- while Dixon gets typecast into the warm, lyrical role that cellists usually fulfill. Mulgrew Miller (piano, Buster Williams (bass) and Lewis Nash (drums) form the solidly mainstream rhythm section that is, however, occasionally asked to do unconventional things. Fortunately, there are enough off-center textures and quirks on this album to sustain Turre's yen for adventure in the '90s -- and on the rhythmically Balkanized "Shorty," Turre's conch shells make a welcome if brief cameo return. ~ by Richard S. Ginell, AMG. 

Verve Records, 559 787-2, 1999
Recorded And Mixed 28th-29tth December, 1997 at Edison Recording Studios, New York 

Musicians:
Steve Turre - Trombone, Shells, Conch (#10)
Regina Carter - Violin
Akua Dixon - Cello
Mulgrew Miller - Piano
Buster Williams - Bass
Lewis Nash - Drums
Kimati Dinizulu - Djembe (#1), Percussion (#10)
Don Conreaux - Gong (#3,5) 

Tracks:
01. The Lotus Flower {Steve Turre} (5:52)
02. Chairman Of The Board {Steve Turre} (6:40)
03. The Inflated Tear {Rahsaan Roland Kirk} (6:55)
04. The Organ Grinder {Woody Shaw} (6:28)
05. Passion For Peace {Steve Turre} (2:03)
06. S'posin' {Andy Razaf, Paul Denniker} (6:48)
07. The Fragrance Of Love {Steve Turre} (6:22)
08. Blackfoot {Steve Turre} (7:03)
09. Goodbye {Gordon Jenkins} (7:23)
10. Shorty {Steve Turre} (5:42) 

Credits:
Producer - Billy Banks
Executive-Producer - Richard Seidel
Production Manager - Camille Tominaro
Engineer - Gary Chester
Assistant Engineer - Jim Murray, Yvonne Yedibalian
Coordinator [Release Coordination] - Beverly Harris
Art Direction, Design - Chika Azuma
Artwork - Istvan Banyai
Arranger - Steve Turre

Woody Herman - Light My Fire (1968) [vinyl]

Light my fire, indeed! Woody's been lighting fires for years. But his new torch lights up an infernal blaze of new colors and sounds. Swinging new fires are being lit by Woody's fresh "now" music every night as he searingly blasts through a heretofore perplexing membrane to reach the young generation. His forces have already emerged as the most fiery and communicative big band to light up thousands of students of the likes of Miami University, University of Oklahoma, and University of Toledo among other college and high school bastions of rock fever. They have not allowed Woody's band to get off the bandstand during dance-concerts - right through intermissions non-stop, even though established rock groups have been co-featured on the billings. Bear in mind, this album is not merely the result of enthusiastically-held desire of Woody, of Dick La Palm - Cadet executive who is Woody's close friend and fan, and of Richard Evans the talented, resourceful arranger of the album's tunes, but it is more vital that it is a true reflection of the incredible, volatile chemistry existing between Woody's "now thing" and the young people's "now thing". They all dig it! The amazing Woody Herman has another raging runaway gas of a band! So, get this fuming hot album and get lit up!! ~ Herg Wong, Liner Notes. 

Cadet Records, LPS-819, 1969
Chess Records, CRLS 4544, 1969
Recorded October, 1968 at Ter Mar Studios, Chicago, Illinois 

Musicians:
Woody Herman - Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone
Gary Grant, Henry Hall, James Bossert, Nat Pavone, Sal Marquez - Trumpet
Robert Burgess, Henry Southall, Vincent Prudente - Trombone
Frank Vicari, Sal Nistico, Steve Lederer, Thomas Boras - Reeds
John Hicks - Piano
Phil Upchurch - Guitar
Arthur Harper - Bass
Ed Soph - Drums
Morris Jennings - Percussion 

Tracks: [Details] 

A1. Ponteio {Edu Lobo, Capinam} (3:34)
Soloist: Frank Vicari - Tenor Saxophone
Soloist: Nat Pavone - Trumpet 

A2. Here I Am, Baby {Smokey Robinson} (3:48)
Soloist: Frank Vicari - Tenor Saxophone 

A3. Hard To Keep My Mind On You {Jake Holmes} (3:31)
Soloist: Woody Herman - Soprano Saxophone 

A4. MacArthur Park {Jim Webb} (8:33)
Soloist [Pt. 1]: Woody Herman - Alto Saxophone
Soloist [Pt. 1]: Robert Burgess - Trombone
Soloist [Pt. 2]: Henry Hall - Trumpet (1)
Soloist [Pt. 2]: Sal Marquez - Trumpet (2)
Soloist [Pt. 2]: Gary Grant - Trumpet (3)
Soloist [Pt. 2]: Nat Pavone - Trumpet (4)
Soloist [Pt. 2]: James Bossert - Trumpet (5)
Soloist [Pt. 2]: John Hicks - Piano
Soloist [Pt. 2]: Steve Lederer - Tenor Saxophone 

B1. Light My Fire {Jim Morrison, John Densmore, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger} (3:34)
Soloist [1]: Sal Marquez - Trumpet
Soloist [2]: Henry Hall - Trumpet
Soloist: Robert Burgess - Trombone 

B2. I Say A Little Prayer {Burt Bacharach, Hal David} (3:31)
Soloist: Frank Vicari - Tenor Saxophone
Soloist: Henry Hall - Trumpet 

B3. Hush {William Stevenson} (4:14)
Soloist: Sal Nistico - Tenor Saxophone
Soloist: Henry Hall - Trumpet 

B4. For Love Of Ivy {Bob Russell, Quincy Jones} (3:33)
Soloist: Frank Vicari - Tenor Saxophone
Soloist: Gary Grant - Trumpet 

B5. Impression Of Strayhorn {Richard Evans} (3:23)
Soloist: Woody Herman - Clarinet, Alto Saxophone 

B6. Keep On Keepin' On {Richard Evans} (4:14)
Soloist: Sal Nistico - Tenor Saxophone
Soloist: Henry Hall - Trumpet 

Total Time: 41:55

Credits:
Producer, Arranger - Richard Evans
Recording Engineer - Stu Black
Supervisor [Album] - Dick LaPalm
Design [Album] - Hurvis, Binzer & Churchill
Photography [Cover] - Peter Coutroulis
Liner Notes - Herb Wong

Kenny Werner - New York - Love Songs (2009)

Kenny Werner improvised ballads that reflect his impressions of New York City for this 2009 solo piano session. The Brooklyn native's lyrical touch is present throughout this delightful recording, capturing the stillness of early morning in his moving "First Light/East River." Anyone who has visited the World Trade Center and since returned to view the starkly empty spot where it once stood can't help but be moved by Werner's poignant "Ground Zero," a piece conveying anguish at the terrible loss of life. His delicate, touching "Song of the Heart [For Lorraine and Katheryn]" subtly conveys his unconditional love for his family (Katheryn tragically died in a car crash several years earlier at the age of 16). Werner's lush extended work "Central Park Suite" and melancholy "Hudson Lament" are also among the CD's highlights. Kenny Werner has long established himself as a brilliant solo pianist and composer, and this French release is well worth acquiring. ~ by Ken Dryden, AMG. 

Out Note Records, ONT 003, 2010
Recorded 6th December, 2009 at Studio La Buissonne, Pernes-Les Fontaine, France 

Kenny Werner - Piano [Solo] 

Tracks:
1. First Light / East River (6:59)
2. Ground Zero (3:53)
3. Song Of The Heart [For Lorraine And Katheryn] (6:32)
4. Scenes From Grand Central [For Bonnie] (6:24)
5. Central Park Suite (13:40)
6. Hudson Lament (4:18)
7. Twilight / Riverside (5:02)
8. Back Home Again [For Barbara And Wesley] (4:58) 

Total Time: 51:40 

All Compositions by Kenny Werner

Credits:
Producer, Photography [Cover] - Jean-Jacques Pussiau
Engineer, Mixing - Gérard de Haro
Assistant Engineer, Mastering - Nicolas Baillard
Piano Tuner - Alain Massonneau
Photography [Portraits] - Andrea Boccalini
Cover Design - Little Spoon
English Translation - Eve Judelson
Liner Notes - Alain Gerber 

This anthology of Kenny Werner compositions turns out to be a succession of improvisations inspired by his life in NY. From little pieces ("Ground Zero," "Hudson Lament") to a suite ("Central Park Suite"), Werner invites us into a post-9/11 NY, for solitary and serene daydreaming.

Jeff Davis - We Sleep Outside (2007)

We Sleep Outside, his first album as a leader, focuses as much on his talents as a writer and bandleader as an improviser. Like many of his generation, his writing encompasses a number of genres, yet Davis understands the importance of creating a context for such diversity. Sequencing individual tunes into a suite-like program, the set unfolds episodically, seamlessly blending divergent moods. Supported by his longstanding sextet (formed in 2006), Davis and company blur the line between the composed and improvised with ease. Frequently obscuring the roles of soloist and accompanist, he often divides the group into rotating duos and trios, while offsetting individual soloists with bouts of collective improvisation. His band-mates practiced interplay is reinforced by a communal sensibility, reflected in their use of Davis' services in their own ensembles, namely trumpeter Kirk Knuffke, bassist Eivind Opsvik and Jeff's wife, pianist Kris Davis. Rounded out by guitarist Jon Goldberger and saxophonist Tony Barba, Davis' unit embarks on a journey that revels in shadowy hues. The brooding Masqualeroian drama of "Bruce and Brunost Suite" opens the album, establishing the tenor of the session with a foreboding electro-acoustic undercurrent. Episodic in scope and anthem-like in approach, the suite gracefully modulates through a number of sections, featuring a string of visceral solos from the sextet. "Black Beard" ventures deeper into pungent jazz-rock territory, spotlighting Goldberger's scorching arpeggios, Barba's volcanic tenor and the leader's turbulent kit work. Davis' compositional prowess comes to the fore on "Slipper Hero," staging a series of dynamic interludes between different combinations of players before resolving in a soaring unison denouement. Culminating with similar fervor, but following a more expansive arc, "Talk to Me" rises from dulcet introspection to a cathartic dialogue between Barba's frantic tenor and Goldberger's incendiary guitar. Providing respite from the album's acerbic fare, the understated "Waltz" and haunting ballad "Fred Ullmann" reveal Davis' dark melodic gifts, while the collectively composed title track closes the album on a bittersweet note. Underground scenes often foster an incredible range of new talent - counterbalanced by equally fierce competition. We Sleep Outside is an excellent example of their aesthetic and a bold debut for Jeff Davis. ~ Extract by Troy Collins, AAJ. 

Loyal Label, LLCD008, 2010
Recorded 8th June, 2007 at Systems Two, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Jeff Davis - Drums, Percussion
Kirk Knuffke - Trumpet
Tony Barba - Clarinet, Tenor & Soprano Saxophones
Kris Davis - Piano, Fender Rhodes Piano
Jon Goldberger - Guitar
Eivind Opsvik - Upright Bass 

Tracks:
1. Bruce And Brunost Suite {Jeff Davis} (13:47)
2. Talk To Me {Jeff Davis} (7:14)
3. Black Beard  {Jeff Davis} (7:32)
4. Waltz {Jeff Davis} (3:36)
5. Fred Ullmann {Jeff Davis} (5:30)
6. Slipper Hero {Jeff Davis} (9:05)
7. We Sleep Outside {Davis, Goldberger, Davis, Opsvik} (3:24) 

Total Time: 50:08

Credits:
Engineer - Joe Marciano
Mastering - Scott Anderson
Design - Allan Näslund
Photography - Michelle Arcila

Steve Turre - Rhythm Within (1995)

Trombonist Steve Turre obviously put a lot of work into this CD for each of the nine selections has its own purpose and the personnel changes on every cut. Turre doubles on the conch shells and on a few numbers utilizes a "shell choir"; in addition, there are often three percussionists, other notable trombonists (including Britt Woodman, Frank Lacy and Robin Eubanks) and such guest soloists as trumpeter Jon Faddis, tenor-saxophonist Pharoah Sanders and pianist Herbie Hancock. With highlights including "Funky-T," Yusef Lateef's "Morning," "Since I Fell for You" (a Woodman feature) and "All Blues," this is a particularly memorable and well-conceived set, one of Turre's best. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Antilles Records, 314 527 159-2, 1995
Recorded, Mixed & Mastered at Van Gelder Studio, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 

Personnel:
Steve Turre - Trombone (#1-4,6,8,9), Conch [Shells] (#1-7,9)
Jon Faddis - Trumpet (#1,5,6), Flugelhorn (#4), Conch [Shells] (#6)
Stanton Davis - Trumpet (#2,8,9), Flugelhorn (#8), Conch [Shells] (#7)
Aaron Johnson - Trombone (#9), Conch [Shells] (#3,7,9)
Britt Woodman - Trombone (#3)
Douglas Purviance - Trombone (#6), Bass Trombone (#2,4,8), Conch [Shells] (#1,5,6)
Frank Lacy - Trombone (#6,8,9), Conch [Shells] (#1-7)
Jamal Haynes - Trombone (#6,8,9), Conch [Shells] (#1-7,9)
Robin Eubanks - Trombone (#6,8,9), Conch [Shells] (#1-7,9)
Pharoah Sanders - Tenor Saxophone (#1,4)
Herbie Hancock - Piano (#1,4,6)
Andy Gonzalez - Bass
Kimati Dinizulu - Bass [One String] (#2), Shekere (#3), Percussion (#5),
Claves (#7), Drums [African] (#1,4,6,9)
Victor Lewis - Drums (#1-4,6,8,9), Percussion (#5)
Milton Cardona - Congas (#1,2,4,6), Shekere (#3,9), Percussion (#5), Timbales, Cowbell (#7)
Jimmy Delgado - Shekere (#3), Cowbell, Percussion (#9) 

Tracks:
1. Funky T {Steve Turre} (12:58)
2. Morning {Yusef Lateef} (8:56)
3. Since I Fell For You {Buddy Johnson} (5:39)
4. Rhythm Within {Steve Turre} (8:18)
5. Twilight Dreams {Steve Turre} (3:22)
6. All Blues {Miles Davis} (9:05)
7. Montuno Caracol {Steve Turre} (3:00)
8. Body And Soul {Heyman, Eyton, Green, Sour} (8:28)
9. African Shuffle {Steve Turre} (8:59) 

Credits:
Producer - Billy Banks
Executive-Producer - Richard Seidel
Recording, Mixing & Mastering - Rudy van Gelder
Assistant Engineer - Maureen Sickler
Art Direction - David Lau
Design - Giulio Turturro
Illustration - James Steinberg
Photography - Jimmy Katz
Conductor - Akua Dixon Turre (#1,2,4-6,8), Rufus Reid (#3,7,9)
Liner Notes, Arranger - Steve Turre 

A Jazz Masterpiece
One of my favourite jazz albums, if not my favourite jazz album ever. It is also my favourite album from Turre. What makes it unique: the wonderful sound of shells (conchs), which is Steve Turre's speciality, an exotic texture, a feeling of both warmth and freshness, thanks to conchs and congas, to the contrast between conchs and brass, amazing rhythms and beautiful melodies, especially "Funky-T" and the wonderful re-interpretation of Miles's Davis standard "All Blues". The album has an amazing unity, and also unites among the best jazzmen of our time. ~ by D. Audeon, Amazon.com.

George Masso Sextet - C'est Magnifique! w. Lou Colombo & Harry Allen (1999)

Got a Call on the 'Bone Phone'. George Masso may be the Harry Allen of the trombone, only older. Born in 1927, Masso made his living teaching school and playing trombone on the side. In 1973, he managed to become a full-time musician recording for the Arbors, Sackville, Famous Door, and Nagel-Heyer labels. Masso has had three critically acclaimed discs on Nagel-Heyer, C'est Magnifique! being the most recent (he has previously released the Wonderful World of George Gershwin (NH CD 001) and Trombone Artistry (NH CD014). He, like Allen, performs exclusively traditional jazz and does so almost without flaw. There are no originals here, only standards. Standards played to perfection. This is a live recording was made in early 1999 in Hamburg (home of the Nagel-Heyers). It is a collection of Cole Porter tunes. No "Love for Sale" here. These are lesser-performed tunes, making this disc that much more interesting. Harry Allen, Again! I have just finished reviewing Harry Allen's the King and was pleased to find him here. Allen may be the most perfect tenor player exhaling through his instrument. He (and Masso) is not a groundbreaker. He is a performer with a technique so prodigious it can make one's mouth go dry. On this recording, Allen's tenor almost mimics the sound of the clarinet so clean is Allen's attack. Likewise for Mr. Masso. George Masso is a well-known commodity on the trad jazz circuit, but may be less well known universally. He has a beautiful, respectful, and well-informed tone. What a treasure! Anything Goes. This collection of Cole Porter tunes is bookended by two splendid examples of traditional jazz playing. "It's D'Lovely" and the title cut are definitely played in "the old style". I am not going to go so far and describe this performance as "Dixieland". I would call it post 1930s small combo Chicago jazz at the dawn of the Swing era. No matter, it is super music. Both Masso and Allen, along with pianist Johnny Varro, turn in stellar performances on all cuts but uniquely shine on the ballads. Nagel-Heyer should be commended on their allegiance to traditional (mainstream jazz). Nagel-Heyer is a great repository for this fine music and fine musicians such as George Masso. ~ by C. Michael Bailey, AAJ. 

Nagel Heyer Records, CD 060, 2000
Recorded 6th March, 1999 Live at the Hanse-Merkur Auditorium, Hamburg, Germany 

Musicians:
George Masso - Trombone, Leader
Lou Colombo - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Harry Allen - Tenor Saxophone
Johnny Varro - Piano
Phil Flanigan - Bass
Jake Hanna - Drums 

Tracks:
1. It's D'Lovely (9:44)
2. It's Allright With Me (10:49)
3. Why Shouldn't I (4:51)
4. What Is This Thing Called Love (7:08)
5. I Love You, Samantha (5:51)
6. Get Out Of Town (9:41)
7. C'est Magnifique (8:41) 

All Compositions by Cole Porter 

Total Time: 56:49 

Credits:
Producer - Sabine & Hans Nagel-Heyer
Recording & Mixing Engineer - Ben Ahrens
Digital Mastering - Sonopress, Gutersloh
Cover Photo - Dieter Frahnert
Cover - woellergestaltung, Hamburg

Terence Blanchard - The Heart Speaks (1996)

Although trumpeter Terence Blanchard gets first billing on this recording, it is very much a joint effort with singer-composer Ivan Lins. Not only are all 13 songs by Lins but he sings on all but the three instrumentals although sometimes just wordlessly in the background. Blanchard often harmonizes with Lins' voice, creating a melancholy and dreamy atmosphere. Most selections feature Blanchard's regular rhythm section of the time, augmented by Paulinho Da Costa's percussion and occasionally Oscar Castro-Neves' acoustic guitar. This CD, which is full of haunting ballads along with a few more jubilant numbers, serves as a superior introduction to Lins' music for jazz fans who might only be familiar with his "Love Dance." ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Columbia Records, CK 67415, 1996
Recorded 28th-31st August, 1995 at Conway Studios, Studio C, Hollywood, California 

Musicians:
Terence Blanchard - Trumpet, Arranger [Cello]
Ivan Lins - Piano, Vocals (#1-4,6,8,9,11-13)
Edward Simon - Piano (#1,2,4-10,12,13)
Oscar Castro-Neves - Guitar (#1-3,9,13)
David Pulphus - Bass (#1-10,12,13)
David Bohanovich - Cello (#2)
Fred Zlotkin - Cello (#8,10)
Troy Davis - Drums (#1-7,9,10,12,13)
Paulinho Da Costa - Percussion (#1-4,6,9,12,13)

Tracks:
01. Aparecida {Ivan Lins, Maurício Tapajós} (6:02)
02. Antes Que Seja Tarde {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (5:30)
03. Meu Pais [My Country] {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (3:57)
04. Valsa Mineira {Ivan Lins} (4:54)
05. The Heart Speaks {Ivan Lins} (5:28)
06. Congada Blues {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (5:37)
07. Nocturna {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (5:26)
08. Just For Nana {Ivan Lins} (5:04)
09. Orizimbo And Rosicler {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (4:31)
10. Choros Das Aguas {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (7:29)
11. Love Dance {Paul Williams, Ivan Lins, Gilson Peranzzetta, Vitor Martins}
/ Começar de Novo {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (4:26)
12. Menino {Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins} (4:50)
13. Aparecida Reprise {Ivan Lins, Maurício Tapajós} (1:05) 

Total Time: 64:27 

Credits:
Producer - Miles Goodman
Executive Producer - Tony McAnany
Associate Producer - Robin Burgess
Engineer, Mixing - Joel Moss, James Nichols
Assistant Engineer - Sean O’Dwyer
Mastering - Vladimir Meller
Photography - Hans Neleman
Art Direction - Joel Zimmerman
Liner Notes - Ivan Lins

Patrick Cornelius - While We're Still Young (2016)

An alumnus of Berklee School of Music, saxophonist Patrick Cornelius has now released his sixth album containing a very fine suite of his own compositions, inspired by the poetry of A.A. Milne, the British children's author of When We Were Very Young. A brief horn introduction, reminiscent of the slow movement in Dvorak's Symphony No. 9 opens "Sand Between The Toes," rapidly ensued by a lively full ensemble section, and solos by Gerald Clayton on piano, Patrick Cornelius on alto sax, Nick Vayenas on trombone and Miles Okazaki on guitar, before returning to a robust ensemble finale. "Water Lilies" is redolent of a Kenny Wheeler tune with the initial melody played by Jason Palmer on trumpet, then taken-up by the ensemble. Palmer and Patrick Cornelius on soprano saxophone both produce excellent solos. "Jonathan Jo" is a feisty number with the ensemble sounding like a cross between the medium-sized bands of Charles Mingus and George Russell. The groove here, along with an incisive riff, sticks to the memory banks like glue. "The Invaders," by contrast, is sedately Ellingtonian, the melody led by the reeds followed by the ensemble and an appropriately mellifluous bass clarinet solo by John Ellis. The short and bop-infused "Lines and Squares" leads into an engaging guitar solo from Mike Okazaki whose amplified archtop guitar evinces a satisfyingly intriguing acoustic tone which is followed by breezy interplay between the brass. "Vespers," the longest piece at nearly eleven minutes, begins serenely with Okazaki's engaging guitar work soloing over piano, bass and drums, then moving into an ensemble section featuring solos from trumpet and alto sax and resolving with some frenetic ensemble blowing and finally more delicate guitar. Special mention should also be made of Alban Low whose delightful artwork tastefully adorns the six-panel digipak CD, respectfully channeling the Ernest Howard Shepard illustrations which, amongst many others, famously embellished A.A. Milne's most renowned book, Winnie the Pooh. This album was written with the aid of a commission from Chamber Music America and a grant from the Doris Duke Foundation, but crucially this work shouldn't just be labelled "chamber jazz" since it's very much more than that. Like its elegant cover, it's actually a work of art. ~ Roger Farbey, AAJ. 

Whirlwind Recordings, WR4682, 2016
Recorded 14th December, 2013, Avatar Studios, New York City 

Musicians:
Patrick Cornelius - Alto & Soprano Saxophones, Flute, Arranger
Jason Palmer - Trumpet
Nick Vayenas - Trombone
John Ellis - Tenor Saxophone, Bass Clarinet
Gerald Clayton - Piano
Miles Okazaki - Guitar
Peter Slavov Jr. - Bass
Kendrick Scott - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Sand Between The Toes (9:22)
2. Water Lilies (9:43)
3. Jonathan Joe (7:11)
4. Invaders (7:49)
5. Lines And Squares (2:47)
6. Vespers (10:39) 

All Compositions by Patrick Cornelius 

Total Time: 47:37

Credits:
Producer - Patrick Cornelius, Kyle Saulnier
Executive-Producer - Michael Janisch
​Engineering,​ M​ixing & M​astering - Tyler McDiarmid, New York City
Album Art & Design - Alban Low

P.J. Perry - My Ideal (1989)

One of the top bop-based alto saxophonists in Canada, P.J. Perry is quite unknown in the United States, although a 1990 Concord album helped give him a little bit of visibility. This set from the Canadian Unity label features Perry with an all-star rhythm section comprised of pianist Mulgrew Miller, bassist Neil Swainson, and drummer Victor Lewis. Perry swings on three originals, two obscurities, and four standards (including "If I Should Lose You" and Charlie Parker's "Cheryl"). Perry is the Canadian equivalent to Sonny Stitt, in style if not output, and his music is well worth exploring by straight-ahead jazz fans. A fine effort. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Unity Records, UTY CD128, 1989
Recorded 10th October, 1989 on Dolby SR at Studio Tempo, Montréal, Québec 

Musicians:
P.J. Perry – Tenor & Alto Saxophones
Mulgrew Miller - Piano
Neil Swainson - Bass
Victor Lewis - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Nicolia {P.J. Perry} (6:43)
2. If I Should Lose You {Ralph Rainger, Leo Robin} (6:43)
3. My Ideal {Newell Chase, Leo Robin, Richard A. Whiting} (7:16)
4. Mother Night {Phil Dwyer} (8:43)
5. Doodle {P.J. Perry} (5:46)
6. Kira Samba {P.J. Perry} (5:27)
7. Helsingborg {Torben Oxbol} (7:10)
8. Cheryl {Charlie Parker} (6:49)
9. Easy To Love {Cole Porter} (6:45) 

Total Time: 61:22 

Credits:
Producer - Nels Guloien
Executive Producer - Ian McDougal
Engineer - Ian Terry
Cover Photo- Anna Strever