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James Danderfer: If Not Now
ByWeeds not only produced the album, he is an integral part of the ensemble, blending his robust tenor saxophone on the front line with Danderfer, trombonist Steve Davis and vibraphonist Atley King. To help show his appreciation, Danderfer wrote a song, "Garden of Weeds," for his friend and colleague. It is one of nine original compositions by the leader that comprise the album's entire playlist. Danderfer also wrote engaging songs for his wife ("I Like You"), children ("My Brightest Lights"), parents ("Ponderosa"), pleasurable pursuits ("Nightlife") and the uncertain world in which we live ("Tempest of the Times"). Everything was written in the roughly four months between Weeds' invitation to record and the actual studio date in November 2024 at the famed Van Gelder Studios in New Jersey.
Even though Danderfer is remarkable on clarinet, he actually plays bass clarinet more often (five numbers), and he is consistently impressive when soloing, as are Weeds and Davis, who improvise on four numbers each. King and pianist Miki Yamanaka also have their dazzling moments, while bassist Tyrone Allen II sets the compass on "Oh Brother" and drummer Kush Abadey is out front on "Brightest Lights" and "Nightlife" and sharply focused on every number. Danderfer, the composer, is their trustworthy partner, lending them a generous amount of luminous material on which to work. His running mates repay his kindness by making every number shine.
Kudos to Danderfer for a job well done, and to Weeds for sensing what could be achieved and helping to ensure the best possible outcome.
Track Listing
Ponderosa; My Brightest Lights; Nightlife; Tumbledown; Oh Brother; If Not Now; I Like You; Garden of Weeds; Tempest of the Times.
Personnel
James Danderfer
clarinetCory Weeds
saxophone, altoSteve Davis
tromboneAtley King
vibraphoneMiki Yamanaka
pianoTyrone Allen II
bassKush Abadey
drumsAlbum information
Title: If Not Now | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: Cellar Music Group
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