CD/LP/Track Review
John Temmerman's Jazz Obsession Quartet: The Power of Two (2002)
Mark F. Turner
Considering himself a modern day 'Jazz Explorer' Mark continues to discover new and exciting music territories.
Chicago's been keeping a secret from the rest of the jazz world in the name of John Temmerman. The secret has been exposed on his latest recording, The Power of Two, for what it really is - top notch and immensely entertaining jazz. Featuring a group that can jam with pure funk, swing with the best, and groove you to the bone; Mr.Temmerman's Obsession Quartet delivers the package with full rewards to listeners who appreciate their music uncut, and full of immense talent. John Temmerman has been performing in and around the Chicago area for many years. He's had music stints with the University of Illinois Jazz Bands and Berklee School of Music. He also teaches music in the area. His rich and robust tenor saxophone is profound and the new recording features one of the tightest jazz quartets in the Windy City.
The Power of Two features a vivid display of the multifarious range of the quartet's talent. It opens up with a soulful rendition of the Miles Davis timeless classic "All Blues." John's sax sings strong and smooth with excellent solos from all band members. The next selection whispers a cool Latin melody entitled "Costa Del Sol". The rhythm sections jams tight on the title cut "The Power of Two" which is dedicated to his wife. It's then on to the pure funk fest appropriately called "Slam Time" which features the band spreading the funk with good rhythm and excellent solos. Temmerman's band has skill, experience, and cohesiveness. Bassist Steve Hashimoto strong lines and smooth solos are stellar. Listen to the bass on Wayne Henderson's "Whispering Pines ". The rhythm is outstanding. Drummer Rusty Jones's rhythms are colorful and crisp, displaying skills of a true master. All the musicians are excellent and one of the highlights on the recording is guitarist Neal Alger. His skill and versatility are incredible. From the too funky cut "T.C.B In E" to the bluesy swinging selection "Slick Color", Alger's pours out liquid grooves and incredible solos.
John's talent on saxophone is filled with harmonic depth and incredible range, reminiscent of the imminent Dexter Gordon. His solos are rich and soulful. He penned half of the songs and the arrangements are all stellar. It would be a real treat to see this band perform live. Native Chicago music fans will no longer be a able to keep this little known secret from spreading. It deserves to be exposed. This is feel good music that grooves and will make you smile. Highly recommended.
John Temmerman's Jazz Obsession Quartet
Track Listing: 1. All Blues 2. Costa Del Sol 3. The Power Of Two 4. Slam Time 5. Whispering Pines 6. Nice And Easy 7. T.C.B. in E 8. Plan B 9. Slick Color 10. When The Lights Go Out 11. Secondary Ignorance 12. Come To The Table
Personnel: Neal Alger- Guitar, Rusty Jones- drums, John Temmerman- sax, Steven Hashimoto- Bass
Record Label: JFT2 | Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream
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