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Alex Norris Organ Quartet: Extension Deadline
ByWhile Norris has been a fixture on the scene for just over two decades, Extension Deadline is only his second recording as a leader, coming some fifteen years after his debutA New Beginning (Fresh Sound New Talent, 2000). Here, he works with two old friends that go back to his formative days in Marylandpianist-organist George Colligan and saxophonist Gary Thomasand drummer Rudy Royston, a new friend who adds plenty of sparks to the proceedings. Together they tackle seven Norris originals, one Colligan tune ("Optimism"), and a classic from the pen of vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson ("Little B's Poem").
This quartet cooks right out of the gate with the title track. Norris proves to be a liberal giver of solo space here and elsewhere, as everybody gets to shine. As the program continues, Norris and company tackle a quirky tune in seven ("What Happened Here?), trim things down to a flugelhorn-and-rhythm trio for a gently waltzing standard ("Little B's Poem"), and get down with some heady post-modern funk ("Where Angels Fear"). In every instance the music speaks clearly and intelligently, allowing for individual freedom of expression but never overstaying its welcome. With seven out of eight tunes falling in the five-to-seven minute range, Norris and company manage to keep things concise while still finding time to show-and-tell via solos. Royston's tightly wound drumming, Colligan's supportive and endlessly creative organ work, and the well-synced horns of Norris and Thomas prove to be a formula for success.
Track Listing
Extension Deadline; Night Watchman; What Happened Here?; San Jose; Little B's Poem; Where Angels Fear; Optimism; Red Flag.
Personnel
Alex Norris
trumpetAlex Norris: trumpet, flugelhorn; Gary Thomas: tenor saxophone; George Colligan: Hammond A-100 organ; Rudy Royston: drums.
Album information
Title: Extension Deadline | Year Released: 2015 | Record Label: Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records