David Schumacher: Endangered Species

Originally from Chicago and now based in New York, Schumacher began his professional career with in Lionel Hampton's big band. More mainstream jazz experience followed with Art Blakey's big band, Harry Connick, Jr.'s orchestra, T.S. Monk's ensemble, Tom Harrell's octet, Joe Lovano's nonet, and more. The Big Apple has opened doors for this baritone saxophonist with a big, burly sound and fiery technique.

Eight of his original compositions give the album a wide spectrum as he travels through a myriad of jazz subgenres with a personal zeal. Opening the umbrella far and wide, he's encompassed music from afar and gathered it all into one jazz bag.

Reciting his own poetry on three selections, Schumacher expresses the kinds of thoughts that we and his musical partners find prevalent on the contemporary jazz scene. "Don't judge," he says in a cool, gravel-filled voice with tenor saxophone accompaniment. "Observe." He speaks of "life left untasted" and calls for a "soulful insurrection" that will set us free. His music certainly bears that out as the baritone saxophonist grooves with deep feeling and romps with a comfortable rhythmic ease.

Arch's Nutty Variation features three stellar tenors; Jerry Weldon, Ned Goold, and Schumacher work together and stretch out individually. As the album's longest track, this one drives with a hearty straight-ahead approach that sizzles intensely.

Trombonist Robert Trowers serves as Schumacher's ally for the most part, along with organist Rob Bargad and drummer Jimmy Cobb. Together they bring this recommended session to a wider audience with welcome results. New York patrons can't continue to keep this guy to themselves. His wide-open approach smokes with an inner fire that spreads naturally. David Schumacher is contagious.

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