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Lan Xang: Lan Xang
ByLan Xang strikes a huge blow for an all acoustic jazz quartet. On "Vevasis" Binney and McCaslin take on the semblance of a mini-sax section complete with rapid forward motion, loads of thematic statements and melodic choruses. This cut is tight, spunky and propelled by the deep rich bass of Scott Colley and veteran New York City based drummer Jeff Hirshfield. Shifting tempos and on-a-dime metrics are evident though not overbearing or fatuous. On "A Hundred Kings" Hirshfield and Colley tear it up underneath Binney's lightning fast soloing. Binney engages in memorable lyricism while McClaslin's tenor and soprano sax work is brawny yet emphatic. "Vevasis" is a showcase for the band's discipline and precision. "Rob Petry," television's fictional 1960's character from The Dick Van Dyke Show, is a clean, no-nonsense Bop inspired tune. Honorable mention goes to Scott Colley who churns out a turbo charged bass solo. "2nd Line Sally" pays homage to the New Orleans shuffle beat with meaty soloing and horn arrangements from Binney and McCaslin.
There are some short interludes strategically placed throughout the recording where Binney picks up the wood flute or Tunisian horn and Scott Colley's "Bells" depict an East meets West scenario. This band is hot! The twin saxophones of Binney and McClaslin are on fire. The dialogue is beguiling. Lan Xang has the recipe for musical success and being a monstrous live act. Putting the technical assets aside much can be said of the intelligent compositions and arrangements. They hit you hard and the excitement level registers a perfect 10. One can only hope that this band continues in a similar path. Full steam ahead guys!
Track Listing
Xang 1; Day of Fear; Night of Truth; Vevasis; Far Rockaway; Rob Petry; Xang 2; 2nd Line Sally; Xang 3; Tango, Waltz and Variations On; Bob Dole/ Blee Bop Ba Bley; Xang 4; A Hundred Kings; Xang 5; Grunge Factor; Xang 1 (alt).
Personnel
David Binney: alto saxophone; Donny McCaslin: tenor and soprano saxophones; Scott Colley: bass; Jeff Hirshfield: drums.
Album information
Title: Lan Xang | Year Released: 1999 | Record Label: Mythology Records
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