Alexis Valet: Following The Sun

Alexis Valet's Following the Sun, is an enjoyable collection of contemporary jazz inspired by Valet's journey across continents—from the luminous streets of Paris to the bustling avenues of New York.

Central to the success of Following the Sun is the symbiotic relationship between Valet and his fellow musicians: Dayna Stephens tenor saxophone, Aaron Parks piano, Joe Martin double bass and Kush Abadey drums. Each brings virtuosity and their unique voice to the compositions, creating a recording that feels cohesive and varied in its feels and intensities.

"Ups and Downs" is a piece that was inspired by the quintessence of New York's jazz scene—dynamic, unpredictable and intensely engaging. Here, the ensemble works in unison, delivering a performance that is as tight as it is expressive. Both Valet and Stephens weave through their solos with impressive displays of melodic and creative colors and structures. Abadey's drumming punctuates the track with sharp, rhythmic articulations as Abadey's bass grounds the whole experience. "June" offers a European jazz influence, its mood reflective of the straight-eight feel and the shifting of the pulse. The track features Parks' pianistic colors, layered over by Martin's deep, resonant bass lines. The introspective "Dream of Integrity" reveals Valet's lyrical playing, supported by Abadey's intricate drum patterns, highlighting their chemistry. "Laika" has Stephens' tenor saxophone bringing a haunting quality to the melody, complementing the solos laid down by Parks and Valet. It is a track where the ensemble's ability to convey a relaxed and lyrical setting comes to the fore.

"Following the Sun" has the energy of a celebration of a journey, literal and metaphorical. Here, Valet shines, his vibraphone playing connected phrases that develop into a contemporary jazz story. The composition's use of swing passages makes this a standout track that encapsulates the spirit of modern jazz. "Cypher" brings in an element of a hip-hop cypher. Stephens and Parks shine here; their solos reflect their ability to shape a meaningful solo. "Lekeitio" has playful interactions between Valet and Parks. Concluding the album, "Myrtle" is an ode to the vibrant, ever-changing landscape of urban life. It is a fitting end to the album, with each musician delivering powerful solos that echo the thematic currents of the entire work.