WRUV Reviews

Three visionary jazz artists w/extensive track records in adventurous ensembles & leaders in their own right get together too infrequently to record in this leaderless project. The results are playful, rigorous, abstract, joyous & introspective. The one constant is their capacity to listen deeply & respond to each other. Adventurous yet accessible. EXCELLENT

To place Mr. Jones in one of the many streams that feed the “jazz” watershed, one might be directed toward movements like AACM, BAG, NYCO, etc. In other words, those departing from post bop toward freer & more personal expression. His statements are emotionally dense - beauty, sadness, passion, mystery - it’s all here in a very expressive artist’s palette. His compositions are just as original. It all adds up to an original vision that takes one to some new psychic frontiers. His rhythm mates are equal contributors to the musical vision. EXCELLENT

First recording since 2008 by this top flight trio. All members are great players in their own right & when they’re not with this group, are leaders of their ensembles. All original compositions by Mehldau which signify an “Ode” to people he knows & likes.  EXCELLENT

Lehman(as) studied w/Jackie McLean & that influence can be heard in Lehman’s sound & attitude. Tart, articulate, in-the-tradition yet impatiently pushing it forward. Grounded & modern. Five originals & four covers make for a nice, varied program of old & new.  VERY GOOD

Ms. Yamamoto has a gift for uncluttered lyricism. The 11 original compositions are strong on simple, yet subtle melody. You might say “quiet music”. Introspective yet engaging. This trio has been together for 16 years & it shows. Cohesive, perfect support & interplay. At times their sound reminds on of Jarrett/Haden/Motian. Play all. EXCELLENT

Born June 22, 1936 & known as o Bruxo (the Sorcerer), Miles Davis called this legendary Brazilian composer & multi-instrumentalist “the most impressive musician in the world.” Playing here with his “Grupo” and members of the “Orquestra Familia” - 14 songs, one for each of his grandchildren - the music is a mix of rich jazz improvisation, intriguing sounds from invented instruments, & Brazilian folk themes.

Here’s a video with a spoken intro by Hermeto

Hermeto Pascoal will be appearing at the Flynn Main Stage on April 4th 2012 at 7:30 PM

Another collaboration between two jazz giants of their generation. Completed shortly before Jone’s death in 2010 at the age of 91. Powerful simplicity in these classic black spirituals including Ellington’s “Come Sunday”.

Composer/musical director Branker’s latest compositions. Good energy and smart post bop jazz here.

Nine original tunes and then some from Rzepka(trp). Would liked to seen the group cut loose a bit more. Jackie Warren(p) stands out.

Pianist & flutist led quintet with classic simplicity. Very laid back, smooth & hip. Cuts # 1 & 7 are original tunes. Post bop.