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Miles Okazaki: Generations
The record was recorded as one through-composed work, with each piece seamlessly integrated to the previous and succeeding section. "Overture" opens, built on an intricate rhythmic structure executed by Okazaki, vocalist Jen Shyu and drummer Dan Weiss. Throughout the record, the focus intermittently shifts back to the synergism between Okazaki and Weiss, as on the ending of "Magic" (which also features Shyu's incisive and lyrical vocals) and at the end of the record, where the reprisal of the "Overture" material precedes and punctuates "Moon."
The rhythmic intrigue of the opening segues into the prodigious flow of melodic invention in "Sun," setting up a wonderful solo by Okazaki. Other shining moments of instrumental lyricism and evocative depictions of abstract concepts emerge throughout the record. Saxophonists Miguel Zenon and Christof Knoche both take deeply moving solos, on "Waves" and "Ghost," respectively. "Fractal" features a thickly woven melody that hockets between the saxophones and voice, a structural device also used effectively in "Ghost." Bassist Thomas Morgan's unaccompanied solo at the end of the title track shows a compelling balance of economy, skill and depth.
Okazaki's deft arranging and inventive melodic sense are central to the music's identity, providing context and form through which the improvisers navigate their own personal expressions.
Track Listing
Overture; Sun; Waves; Magic; Generations; Ghosts; Fractal; Break; Moon.
Personnel
Miles Okazaki
guitarMiguel Zenon, David Binney and Christof Knoche: alto saxophones; Jen Shyu: voice; Miles Okazaki: electric guitar; Dan Weiss: drums; Jon Flaugher: bass.
Album information
Title: Generations | Year Released: 2009 | Record Label: Sunnyside Records
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Miles Okazaki
CD/LP/Track Review
Wilbur MacKenzie
Sunnyside Records
United States
New York
New York City
Jen Shyu
Dan Weiss
Miguel Zenon
Christof Knoche
Generations