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Ralph Peterson: ALIVE at Firehouse12 Vol. 1 - The Unity Project
ByThe setavailable only as a digital download but in multiple formats including FLAC an high and low compression MP3was recorded at the famed New Haven venue Firehouse 12, taking it right out of the gate on the opening "Minor League" with a high-gear solo from organist Jake Sherman, who skillfully plays off the irresistible force of Peterson's attackwhich, as usual, kicks off on overdrive. Berkeley tenor man Craig Handywho doesn't get the press of his homeboys David Murray and Joshua Redmanswings hard from the get-go. The sleeper here, though, is Josh Evans who is one of the most original young voices on trumpet to come down the pike in a long time. He grabs hold of his solo, kicks into fifth gear and doesn't let go until he's finished. "Sonora" follows in a more sedate tempo, with an ever-so-subtle Brazilian motif. The tune is punctuated by Handy's very tasty run on soprano sax; the dynamic saxophonist also swings hard on the next piece, "Second Thoughts."
Even with the superb lineup of his Unity Project, this is undeniably another one of Peterson's high-wire acts. He seems to be the only drummer out there to pick up the mantle of Art Blakey, and he definitely rises to the occasion. On the up-tempo pieces Peterson drives that train, daring the band to hang on. Perhaps it's a good thing that Peterson believes in using young cats, because they need all their energy to keep up with him. The thing, however, is that these boys can hang. Sherman and Evans are two of the most dynamic voices on their respective instruments to break out in a long time. Handy is a pleasure to hear as he takes care of business. As usual, Peterson brings Da Noize in indomitable fashion.
Track Listing
Minor League; Sonora; Second Thoughts; Old Folks; Lexi's Song; The Moontrane.
Personnel
Ralph Peterson
drumsRalph Peterson: drums; Craig Handy: tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone; Josh Evans: trumpet; Jake Sherman: organ.
Album information
Title: ALIVE at Firehouse12 Vol. 1 - The Unity Project | Year Released: 2013 | Record Label: Onyx Music Label
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