Greg Osby: The Invisible Hand

Maybe it’s the helping hand Greg Osby gets on his 14th Blue Note album from veterans Jim Hall and Andrew Hill. We could all use a helping hand like that from time to time. They’ve each written one selection for The Invisible Hand. Hill’s "Ashes" lopes along with a dramatic sense of adventure, while the guitarist’s "Sanctus" marches solemnly in step with French and Spanish classical sounds. Osby’s three ballads appear intimate and dreamy. While serious modern mainstream jazz centers on moods and harmony, the familiar takes a back seat. Even "Jitterbug Waltz" and "Indiana" turn up edgy and without specific meters. From the film A Deadly Affair, Quincy Jones’ "Who Needs Forever" winds its way slowly, while remaining mysterious and romantic. Greg Osby’s apparent theme of intimate spiritual guidance presents itself in moody form, bringing to the album serious overtones and dramatic conversation.