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Alexander Claffy: Music From Big Orange
ByOn this orange-coloured vinyl LP, there are five compositions of which three are Claffy originals, one from Wayne Shorter and the fifth by Michel Legrand. "Once Upon A Summertime" opens side A and sets the mood for the album. Randy Brecker's quietly mysterious muted trumpet begins the musical dialogue, which is joined by Kate Martucci's run-through of the evocative lyrics. Adding to the number's underlying emotion is tenor saxophonist Seamus Blake's aching sound which ultimately leads to an improvisational finish over the rhythm section's solid groove.
The Shorter composition, "Plaza Real," is in keeping with Claffy's willingness to probe a wide range of textures and rhythms which keep the music fresh and innovative. Fully utilizing the superb talents of Brecker and Blake, whose interplay is a testament to their chemistry, along with the pristine sound of drummerAaron Kimmel, the number delivers a cohesive musical narrative.
Side B has two Claffy originals, namely "Cheltenham" (For Randy and Michael) and "1421 Sansom" which both demonstrate his compositional prowess for crafting pieces that are at once innovative yet familiar. On the former number, the tempo is driven by the complex rhythms of drummer Kush Abadey, who is meticulously supportive of the virtuosic solos of Brecker and Blake. Mathis Picard is a savvy pianist who has expressive command of his instrument and each player adds layers of emotion and sophistication to the number. The closing track is offered in a spirited and swinging fashion and continues Claffy's journey through various moods and atmospheres. It begins with a probing bass line from Claffy which leads into an extended tenor saxophone excursion from Blake. Pianist Picard picks up the groove and drives forward with a strong two-handed attack full of sprawling improvisations. Blake then re-enters the fray, blazing his own trail as the number closes out.
This is an interesting album which showcases the many talents of Alexander Claffy, as well as being a worthwhile listen for anyone interested in contemporary jazz.
Track Listing
Side A: Once Upon A Summertime; Plaza Real; A.G. Side B: Cheltenham ( For Randy And Michael);1421 Sansom
Personnel
Alexander Claffy
bassKate Martucci
vocalsAlita Moses
vocalsSonny Step
vocalsSeamus Blake
saxophone, tenorRandy Brecker
trumpetEden Ladin
pianoDavid Kikoski
pianoMathis Picard
pianoKush Abadey
drumsAdam Arruda
drumsAaron Kimmel
drumsAlbum information
Title: Music From Big Orange | Year Released: 2023 | Record Label: Cellar Music Group
Comments
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Alexander Claffy
Album Review
Pierre Giroux
Music From Big Orange
Cellar Music Group
Wayne Shorter
Michel Legrand
randy brecker
Kate Martucci
Aaron Kimmel
Kush Abadey
Mathis Picard
Concerts
Apr
28
Sun
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30
Tue
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15
Sat