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Jason Moran: Black Stars
There are certain guideposts that will be unmistakable to the trained ear, although this in no way should suggest that Moran is simply aping past styles. Andrew Hill and Jaki Byard are acknowledged influences, a point made further evident by the inclusion of a solo rendition of Byard’s “Out Front” and by having Sam Rivers in the role of lead horn. The wood flute on “Summit” might also suggest the kind of pan-ethnic experiments that Yusef Lateef led for Impulse back in the ‘60s. The Hill connection comes via Moran’s use of dark harmonies and edgy melodies as heard in “Gangsterism on a River” and a fluid sense of time made so apparent on “Draw the Light Out.”
In addition to Moran’s strong writing, major kudos to his standby rhythm section of bassist Tarus Mateen and drummer Nasheet Waits. Joe Marciano’s sound production is equally sturdy and luminescent. All in all, this sleeper may just turn out to be one of the strongest Blue Note releases to make the scene in quite some time.
Track Listing
Foot Under Foot; Kinda Dukish; Gangsterism on a River; Earth Song; Summit; Say Peace; Draw the Light Out; Out Front; The Sun at Midnight; Skitter In; Sound It Out
Personnel
Jason Moran
pianoJason Moran - piano; Sam Rivers
Album information
Title: Black Stars | Year Released: 2001 | Record Label: Blue Note Records
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