John Ricci: Holding Time (2007)

John Barron

CD/DVD Reviewer since 2007

This writer enjoys listening to past giants and anyone else who doesn't try to sound like them.

Recent articles (188 total)

Published: May 26, 2008

Saxophonist/educator John Ricci comes out swinging for his debut recording Holding Time. The Jacksonville University Professor of Jazz Studies combines original compositions and arrangements of standards for an intriguing set of mainstream jazz.

The disc opens in vigorous fashion with the up-tempo "Mode Time," a perfect minor key workout for Ricci's robust tenor tone. The saxophonist weaves together a tight-knit solo, heavy on thematic development. Pianist Joshua Bowlus follows Ricci with a sweltering solo turn. The mood is lightened somewhat on the floating waltz "Ballerina." Here, Ricci is able to comfortably display his edgy, vibrato-laden phrasing, which straddles traditional swinging ideals and contemporary influences.

The relatively straight reading of "Here's That Rainy Day," done as a quasi-samba, has accessible leanings and features a stand-out solo by bassist Billy Thornton. Ricci's full sweep of his horn's range, emphasizing his extensive bop vocabulary, is impressive.

The bouncy title track swings with a deep pocket courtesy of Thornton and drummer Peter Miles. The hard-swinging momentum sets up inspired solo turns by Bowlus and Ricci. The haunting lyricism of "Slow Tango" contrasts nicely with the down and dirty blues of Ben Webster's "Bounce Blues," the session closer. The latter reveals the influence of not only the tune's composer, but of modern interpreters like Branford Marsalis.

Ricci is a convincing voice in the increasingly overcrowded world of jazz saxophone. His integrity and passion toward the advancement of his musical vision is evident throughout.

Track Listing: Mode Time; Ballerina; Here's That Rainy Day; Holding Time; Slow Tango; Bounce Blues.

Personnel: John Ricci: tenor saxophone; Joshua Bowlus: piano; Billy Thornton: bass; Peter Miles: drums.

Record Label: Self Produced
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream