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The Richard Sorce Project: Closer Than Before
ByThe music is entirely original, but it's very much in the tradition. The Brazilian flavor is further emphasized by the Portuguese titles given to a couple selections. Catchy, upbeat opener "Minha Alegria (My Joy)" could send the listener off to check for a Brazilian composerAntonio Carlos Jobim, perhapsbut it's Sorce all the way. He also contributes a piano solo, and it contains the first of several notable guitar solos by Rob Reich (on acoustic guitar here). "Your Eyes" introduces vocalist Kerry Linder, a new member of the Project, in the first of three pieces featuring her light, clear voice. She gives this album more of a vocal flavor than its predecessor. The track also includes Mark Friedman's lovely flute obligato.The title tune gives trumpeter Fred Maxwell the spotlight, also including a string section, which further expands the sonic palette.
It's primarily an ensemble sound, but another notable solo voice enters on "So I Won't Forget" in the form of Friedman's alto saxophone. Reich shines again on electric guitar, as he also does on "Não Passa Um Dia (Not A Day Goes By)" (which also features trombonist Brian Bonvissuto in a lyrical mood) and "Easy Summer Day." Friedman takes an especially energetic turn on "Never In A Million Years," and again on "Sky High." Closer "With You" goes to a different place, as Sorce and wife (and Associate Producer of the album) Barbara Norris Sorce playfully declare their love in a vocal duet. This is a classy production: always easy on the ears, but played with verve and creativity.
Track Listing
Minha Alegria (My Joy); Your Eyes; Closer Than Before; So I Won't Forget; Não Passa Um Dia (Not A Day Goes By); Could This Be?; Never In A Million Years; Lately; I Think Of You; Sky High; Easy Summer Day; With You.
Personnel
Richard Sorce
pianoRichard Sorce: composer, pianist, arranger; Sue Williams: bass; Don Giunta: drums; Dave Yee: percussion; Rob Reich: guitar; Kerry Linder: vocals 2, 6, 9; vocal ensemble, 6; Barbara Norris Sorce, Richard Sorce: vocals, 12; vocal ensemble, 6; Mark Friedman: alto sax, flute; Fred Maxwell: trumpet, flugelhorn; Tim Veeter: alto sax (ensemble); Brian Bonvissuto: trombone.
Album information
Title: Closer Than Before | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: Everjazz Records
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