Steve Wilson: Generations

Wilson’s "Trapaceria" is a modern mainstream piece with fiery Latin rhythms and carnaval melodies. Doubling of the piano and alto saxophone voices in places increases the drama, to contrast with the composition’s playful attitude. Wilson’s "A Joyful Noise" is a pleasant waltz that features his soprano sax winding its way through the melody with a stamina that recalls John Coltrane’s "My Favorite Things." Miller’s "Small Portion" is a lively up-tempo romp that features each of the quartet’s members in expressive solo encounters. The pianist’s solo portion is especially refreshing. Miller’s blues-tinged keyboard work contains crisp energetic phrasing over a powerful rhythmic left-hand foundation. Drummond’s "Leanin’ & Preenin’ " is a dramatic piece with a loose, swinging feel to it. While remaining heavy at the bottom, the number struts a cocky rhythm over which Wilson and Miller swing in turn. Billy Strayhorn’s "Chelsea Bridge" moves along, bolero-like, to a fascinating drum and pizzicato bass pattern that supports its familiar soaring alto saxophone melody. The classic "Sweet and Lovely" is performed light and bouncy, but with a melodic twist; it’s the session’s highlight. As with all good music, Wilson’s album bridges the generation gap and offers arrangements of substance that will last for an eternity.