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Anthony Branker & Ascent: Dance Music
ByDance Music opens with "The Renewal," as if to signal a more idiosyncratic direction. Elements of jazzsome very close to time-honored swingare infused with just enough abstraction to evoke a sound closer to Django Bates than traditional big band composition. Similarly, the title track incorporates a slight sense of intelligently placed dislocation, generating a high level of interest. "The House of the Brotherhood of the Blackheads," the lengthiest piece in the collection, is an opportunity to hear fine solos from the group, especially returning members, saxophonist Ralph Bowen and trombonist Clifford Adams Jr.
Singer/lyricist Kadri Voorand, appears on four of these all-original tracks, with a super voice that's a cross between Oleta Adams and Dianne Reevesand with, possibly, more range than either-and writing that is neither overly sentimental nor abstract. Ascent's current personnel also retains outstanding pianist Jonny King, whose contributions are vital to the success of this collection; his solos representing some of Dance Music's finest moments. Drummer Adam Cruzmost often associated with pianist Danilo Pérezis the group's newest member, is outstanding, as is guitarist Freddie Bryant, who takes a great solo in his sole appearance, "Truth."
New members and Ascent alumni clearly represent the vision and spirit intended by Branker, another of those incredibly creative artists who receive more recognition outside the US than at home. A highly accomplished trumpeter and long-time fixture at Sweet Basils, he has played in Russia, Finland, France, Germany, and other European locations, as well as performing off-Broadway; he is also an educator and jazz award-winner. Dance Music is both fun and dignified, and should boost him to well-deserved higher recognition.
Track Listing
The Renewal; Mysterious Ways; Dance Music; A Smile Awaits; Asking Answers; The House of the Brotherhood of the Black Heads; The Holy Innocent; A Beautiful Life; Truth; Depende.
Personnel
Anthony Branker
composer / conductorAnthony Branker: musical director; Kadri Voorand: vocals (2, 5, 7, 8); Tia Fuller: alto saxophone; Ralph Bowen: tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone; Clifford Adams, Jr.: trombone; Jonny King: piano; Kenny Davis: bass; Adam Cruz: drums; Freddie Bryant: guitar (9);
Album information
Title: Dance Music | Year Released: 2011 | Record Label: Origin Records
Comments
About Anthony Branker
Instrument: Composer / conductor
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