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Victor Lewis: EEEYYESS!

By Rick Bruner
February 1, 1998
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Victor Lewis is one of today’s finest drummers. His talents were recognized early on as he performed with some of the greatest players. Dexter Gordon, Woody Shaw, and Stan Getz have all taken advantage of his skills. He also co-led the band Horizon with Bobby Watson, one of the finest working bands in the past decade. Victor Lewis is also an excellent composer and six of his tunes appear on EEEYYESS!. If, like me, you have missed the music of Horizon, you’ll be glad to know that the spirit and sound of that band lives on here. That’s a testament to the singular voice that Lewis brings to any band.

Lewis has assembled a hot band of relative youngsters, along with veteran percussionist Don Alias. They interpret his music with fire and finesse. Seamus Blake is one of the most interesting young saxophonists to emerge in some time and he takes a somewhat radical approach here by occasionally using electronic effects to alter his saxophone sound. His playing is top notch, as always. Terell Stafford, who also performed with Horizon, is in great form here, playing better than ever. Stephen Scott on piano and Ed Howard on bass round out the rhythm section.

EEEYYESS! is recommended on the strength of Victor Lewis’ lush drumming and memorable compositions, as well as the outstanding performances by the entire ensemble. Don’t miss the latest effort from this master drummer.

Track Listing

Eeeyyess!; Vulnerability; Un-til; Buttercups; Alter Ego; No More Misunderstandings; Stamina; Here

Personnel

Victor Lewis

drums

Album information

Title: EEEYYESS! | Year Released: 1998 | Record Label: Enja Records

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