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Dan Wilensky: Back In The Mix
ByWilensky's balance of originals to covers, and his use of the same rhythm team from Group Therapy, may lead some to believe that this is more of the same, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The decision to switch from a guitar-supported format to a piano-based quartet, with pianist Mark Soskinof Sonny Rollins sideman famemanning the keys, completely changes the character of the music. Add to that, the presence of trumpeter Russ Johnson on four tracks, and a more measured approach to the music, and you have a completely differentbut no less impressivepackage.
The album opens with the bristling title track, which showcases Wilensky, Johnson and Soskin as soloists, while drummer Tony Moreno's drumming and four-on-the-floor hi-hatà la Tony Williamsspurs them on from below, but the leader quickly turns his attention elsewhere. "Hand In Hand" marries a Herbie Hancock-like vibe and cool, breezy melody with an easygoing groove, "Just Happy" sizzles with a pseudo-samba foundation, while "Falling In Love With Love" finds the group in fine, swinging form. In other places, as on J.J. Johnson's "Lament," the oft-covered "Tenderly" and the soulful "After All Is Said And Done," Wilensky opens up and allows everybody to see the sensitive side of his artistry, which adds another dimension to the music.
Viewed on its own merits Back In The Mix is a strong album from a true original but, in a broader sense, it proves to be the final piece of the aural triptych that marks the triumphant return of Dan Wilensky.
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Dan Wilensky
CD/LP/Track Review
Dan Bilawsky
Self Produced
United States
Mark Soskin
Sonny Rollins
Russ Johnson
Tony Moreno
Tony Williams
Herbie Hancock
J.J. Johnson
Back In The Mix