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Gerald Beckett: Flute Vibes

By Jim Santella
January 4, 2006
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Gerald Beckett leads this quintet and sextet session which features his flute in a program of inspired jazz tunes. Each selection swings with a balance of hard bop and blues.

FluteVibes features the leader with vibraphonist Erik von Buchau in a quiet affair that settles down gracefully. Walking bass, block chords, and ride cymbal propel the front line as both flute and vibraphone stretch out with a free hand. I Remember Bill features Beckett's bass flute and C flute along with Damien Masterson's harmonica in a tender ballad performance that comes from deep within. Both artists shine with a satisfying tone.

Blue Gene features Beckett's alto flute and C flute along with Masterson in a slow blues that oozes with passion. Here, both artists give us a full helping. Bassist Aaron Germain adds a unique solo spot that drives the message home. For "Coral Keys, Beckett employs his whole arsenal of flutes: C flute, alto flute, bass flute, and piccolo. The lively Latin piece lets each instrumental voice color with serene feelings while congas and a stellar rhythm section provide spirit.

Beckett's recommended second Summit album soars with magic vibrations that pique the senses.

Track Listing

The Soothsayer; Fami-Lee; Bimbe Blue; Broken Wing; Pamela

Personnel

Gerald Beckett

flute

Gerald Beckett: flutes; Graham Bruce: flugelhorn; Steve Heckman: tenor saxophone; Max Perkoff: trombone; Damien Masterson: harmonica; Khalil Doak-Anthony: electric guitar; Dave Bell: acoustic guitar; Erik von Buchau: vibraphone; David Ufolf: piano; Aaron Germain: bass; Niels Myrner: drums; Antonio Davidson-Gomez: percussion.

Album information

Title: Flute Vibes | Year Released: 2006 | Record Label: Summit Records

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