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The Alex Levin Trio: A Reason for Being Alone
ByThis is a "with guests" discthe trio is joined on two more numbers by each of the saxophonists; a guitarist sits in on one tune, and a cellist plays on two morebut the title cut, with just the core trio, is an inward-looking, contemplative tune, with a memorable melody and an optimistic feeling. On "Emma's Ennui," a subtle, samba-like number that floats beautifully, Levin and the trio are joined by cellist William Martina and guitarist Chad Coe.
All the compositions on A Reason for Being Alone are Alex Levin originals. He has a nice touch for penning upbeat mainstream jazz tunes with strong melodies, and for changing moods while still maintaining a continuity of feeling.
"Her Solitary Wish" shows some dark colors, with some very strong horn playing from Dillard, along with an inventive Levin piano solo. The drifting, sad-sounding tune "Your Call" features cellist Martina again, while "New Schooled," with Max Hacker sitting in and smoldering on tenor sax, kicks up the energy level a few notches.
A strong, engaging mainstream effort.
Track Listing
Blues on Thursday; A Reason for Being Alone; Emma's Ennui; For Pete's Sake; Her Solitary Wish; Your Call; New Schooled; Polar Bear Waltz; Blues through Stained Glass.
Personnel
Alex Levin
pianoAlex Levin: piano; Diallo House: bass; Taylor Davis: drums; Max Hacker: tenor sax (1,7); Chad Coe: guitar (3); Stacy Dillard: tenor sax (1,5); William Martina: cello (3,6).
Album information
Title: A Reason For Being Alone | Year Released: 2006 | Record Label: Apology records