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Von Freeman: The Improvisor
ByPut Von's new CD, The Improvisor, on blind, ignore the distinguished-looking grey-haired gent holding the sax on the cover, set the track for, say Freeman's take on Cole Porter's "What is This Thing Called Love?" The sax maneighty years young (79 at the time of the recording)has some grit and growl, some musical beef as he muscles the melody around, sounds like a young lion come into his own. He gives the songs a young and hungry man's edge. Actually blisters the song. Gives his rhythm section a run for their money. And another classic, "Darn that Dream" done forthright, brawny-toned.
The CD opens with a Von Freeman sax solo, "If I Should Lose You" . Breathtakingfor the listener; followed by a Freeman original, "Ski-wee" that sounds like something Charlie Parker might have done, bopping hard.
Up and Comer (more accurately, maybe: Up and come, and he's here now) pianist Jason Moran joins Von on two numbers, a sultry "Blues for Billie"; and he is a surprisingly subdued and fine accompanist here, using just the right light touch behind Freeman's burly tone. And on Ellington's "I Like the Sunrise" he dances around Von's rough-edged blowing, and near the end of the tune lightens up to sound, well, Ellingtonian.
Freeman has been low profile most of his career: playing with some of the bestSteve Coleman, Branford Marsalis, Kurt Elling, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Jason Moranbut staying close to home for the most part. And if that's delayed the respect and appreciation a musician of his skill and stature deserves, there is not a trace of bitterness in the man. This web site is featuring now a fine interview with Freeman; check it out. He wasissupremely confident (yet humble) in his abilities and his artistry. The fame and money game were of small import to him.
The Improvisor was recorded live, at three different venues, and showcases Freeman's talents marvelously. If you haven't heard him, pick this one up. He rates with the very top sax playersthe George Colemans and Sonny Rollins. An overlooked jazz treasure, hidden right here in the windy city, still playing at The Apartment Lounge.
www.premonitionandmusic.com
Track Listing
If I Should Lose You, Ski-wee, What is this thing Called Love?, Darn That Dream, Blue Bossa, Blues for Billie, I Like the Sunrise
Personnel
Von Freeman
saxophone, tenorVon Freeman, saxophone; Michael Raynor, drums; Mike Alleumara, guitar; Jack Zara, bass; Jason Moran, piano;Mark Dellias, bass; Nasheet Waits, drums
Album information
Title: The Improvisor | Year Released: 2002 | Record Label: Premonition Records
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