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The Sheryl Bailey 4: For All Those Living
ByLeading the music with sharp riffs and tasty soloing throughout the set, the eight-piece repertoire also reveals her talents as a writer, with clever and innovative original compositions making a decidedly positive musical statement. "An Unexpected Turn" is the perfect opening title for this unexpectedly brilliant turn of an album. The piece is highlighted by brisk guitar work and dazzling piano lines from Jim Ridl with whom Bailey collaborates with many times throughout the set. The title track is a melancholic waltz dedicated to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, the memories and healing process of which are championed by the guitarist as a theme of the album.
Many of Bailey's compositions are straight dedications to friends and fellow musicians such as "A Muse Sings," for the late Jimmy Wyble, which allows bassist Gary Wang a few bright moments, and "Masa's Bag" penned for guitarist Masa Sasaki. Other tribute pieces also include "Wilkinsburg," for her frequent guitar duo partner Jack Wilkins, and the closing "Moblin," a swinging number in dedication to hard bop/soul jazz tenor saxophonist Hank Mobley, who inspired the soul and swing side of the guitarist, a taste of which is included on this disc.
A professor at Boston's Berklee College of Music, Bailey also lends her skills as an instructor at the Ronald McDonald House in association with the New York Pops. In keeping with the healing message of the album, this social-minded guitarist decided to contribute twenty percent of the album sales to the McDonald House. A worthy cause, of course, but it's Bailey's handiwork and the caliber of her music that illuminates this gem of a recording, and makes For All Those Living a rich and enjoyable musical experience not easily forgottenand that's by design.
Track Listing
An Unexpected Turn; For All Those Living; A Muse Sings; Masa's Bag; 29- 11; Wilkinsburg; For A Russian Princess; Moblin.'
Personnel
Sheryl Bailey
guitarSheryl Bailey: guitar; Jim Ridl: piano; Gary Wang: bass; Shingo Okudaira: drums.
Album information
Title: For All Those Living | Year Released: 2011 | Record Label: Self Produced
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