Neil Leonard: Timaeus

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, 2001

New music and jazz flow from Neil Leonard's creative imagination. In the same way that "Rhapsody in Blue" pioneered a blend, Leonard's compositions mix a little swing with a wide variety of different effects. Sci-fi films are loaded with these unusual sounds. However, it's Leonard's alto saxophone that provides substance. He expresses soulful ballads and provides gutsy improvisation. Accompanying him, without overdubbing, are the electronic sounds that wait at his beck and call for their cues. From a coffee percolator marimba to a curious array of processed strings, Leonard's accompaniment serves to complement his saxophone features. In much the same way that a piano trio accompanies, this ensemble of everyday sounds supports the leader on his quest. Using tenor for "Timaeus II," the artist moves fluidly alongside glass-like, xylophone accompaniment. Similarly, a soprano saxophone best expresses what Leonard has in mind for his flighty "San Lazaro" legacy. He's been at it since 1988. His collection of synthetic and processed sounds provides dramatic impressions. Serving the new music community while remaining quite accessible to traditional fans, Timaeus breathes fresh ideas into today's scene. More information about Leonard's album is available at his web site .

Track Listing: M87; Timaeus I; Caxionics; Sacred Bath I; Sacred Bath II; Sacred Bath III; Timaeus II; Legacy: San Lazaro; Inner Path; Passage.

Personnel: Neil Leonard- soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, bells, ocarina, interactive music system.

Record Label: Cedar Hill Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream