Gerald Beckett: Flute Vibes (2005)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: January 4, 2006

Gerald Beckett leads this quintet and sextet session which features his flute in a program of inspired jazz tunes. Each selection swings with a balance of hard bop and blues.

FluteVibes features the leader with vibraphonist Erik von Buchau in a quiet affair that settles down gracefully. Walking bass, block chords, and ride cymbal propel the front line as both flute and vibraphone stretch out with a free hand. I Remember Bill features Beckett's bass flute and C flute along with Damien Masterson's harmonica in a tender ballad performance that comes from deep within. Both artists shine with a satisfying tone.

Blue Gene features Beckett's alto flute and C flute along with Masterson in a slow blues that oozes with passion. Here, both artists give us a full helping. Bassist Aaron Germain adds a unique solo spot that drives the message home. For "Coral Keys, Beckett employs his whole arsenal of flutes: C flute, alto flute, bass flute, and piccolo. The lively Latin piece lets each instrumental voice color with serene feelings while congas and a stellar rhythm section provide spirit.

Beckett's recommended second Summit album soars with magic vibrations that pique the senses.

Track Listing: The Soothsayer; Fami-Lee; Bimbe Blue; Broken Wing; Pamela�s Passion; Blue Gene; FluteVibes; Coral Keys; I Remember Bill; Two�s Blues.

Personnel: Gerald Beckett: flutes; Graham Bruce: flugelhorn; Steve Heckman: tenor saxophone; Max Perkoff: trombone; Damien Masterson: harmonica; Khalil Doak-Anthony: electric guitar; Dave Bell: acoustic guitar; Erik von Buchau: vibraphone; David Ufolf: piano; Aaron Germain: bass; Niels Myrner: drums; Antonio Davidson-Gomez: percussion.

Record Label: Summit Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream