Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Bill Cunliffe: Tomo
Bill Cunliffe: Tomo
"Tomo" is a Japanese word for friend or soulmate, and in a sense, you could easily say that all of the musicians (and composer Kotler) are friends. The album provides another dozen Reed Kotler compositions that serve as hook-filled examples of his work. Several of these songs are reminders of standards that you've heard before but can't put your finger on, and it seems to me that they're just waiting for the addition of a good lyricist and jazz vocalist.
Saxophonist Bob Sheppard, who was a revelation on last year's tribute to the music of Earl Zindars, is again in fine form on both tenor and soprano sax, as well as flute. Guitarist Larry Koonse, whom I did not hear on the earlier albums, delivers here on several melody statements, as well as tuneful solos showing a lyrical style. Pianist/arranger Bill Cunliffe continues to impress with his ability to play bebop piano as a soloist or feeder and displays a fine sense of shading in his arrangements. Bassist Darek Oles and drummer Mark Ferber complete the picture, and the members of the complete group sound fully integrated and comfortable with each other.
The songs are typical of Kotler's writing. "I Will Always Love You" is done with a bossa tempo, "Sweet Suzannah" a pretty ballad, and "In A Restful Place" is a cooker with strong statements from Sheppard and Koonse.
Track Listing
All My Love's For You, Sweet Suzannah, I Will Always Love You, Did I Ask You If You Knew(That I Love You)?, Someday, I Will Finder Her, In A Restful Place, On A Warm Summer Night, When I Look At You, Love's Such A Funny Thing, It's Been A While, Joyful Times, Waltz For Gary.
Personnel
Bill Cunliffe
pianoBob Sheppard, tenor and soprano sax, flute d'amour; Larry Koonse, guitar; Bill Cunliffe, piano, arrangements; Darek Oles, bass; Mark Ferber, drums; Reed Kotler, composer, producer.
Album information
Title: Tomo | Year Released: 2005 | Record Label: Torii Records
< Previous
Return
Next >
I Wish You Peace