Dave Ellis: In The Long Run

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.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: December 1, 1998

The biography at http://www.monarchrecords.com/bio-ellis.html refers to saxophonist Dave Ellis as a "30-year-old rising-star saxophonist" who offers a variety of styles and preferences. The Monarch web site also includes samples from each of the tracks on In The Long Run. His early experience and few recordings only show the surface of what Ellis can do. His two Monarch recordings have proven that Dave Ellis is a "talent deserving wider recognition."

"The Waterbearer," written by Mingus Amungus pianist Muziki Roberson, is one of the most interesting pieces of the session, with Chimenti’s electric piano and Ellis’ soprano saxophone intertwining over a moderate tempo and dramatic scenery. "Monk’s Dream" is playful and quirky with features by Wehner and Ellis. Eric Reed’s "Evil Deals" – the title is an anagram of Dave Ellis – swings out with an easy carefree feeling. Both the tenor saxophonist and pianist create spontaneous work that never loses sight of the swing element. Joe Henderson’s ballad "Black Narcissus" features both the leader and pianist Reed in lush melodic territory. It’s an interesting sophomore session with promises of more to come from this young lion. Recommended.

Track Listing: Ced & Dunn*; You

Personnel: Dave Ellis- tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone on "Meltdown" and "The Waterbearer;" Eric Reed- piano+; Robert Hurst- bass+; Albert "Tootie" Heath- drums+; Jeff Chimenti- piano & electric piano*; Peter Barshay- bass*; Deszon Claiborne- drums*; Marty Wehner- trombone on "Pillars" and "Monk

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