James Danderfer: If Not Now

Clarinetist James Danderfer's If Not Now showcases warmth and craftsmanship. It is the kind of album that affirms jazz's enduring ability to blend tradition with personal expression. Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder's legendary Englewood Cliffs studio on November 4, 2024, the album features a select group including Steve Davis on trombone, Cory Weeds on tenor saxophone, Atley King on vibraphone, Miki Yamanaka on piano, Tyrone Allen II on bass, and drummer Kush Abadey. All nine compositions are by Danderfer, forming a cohesive statement that is reflective, spirited, and rooted in the language of post-bop storytelling.

The opening track "Ponderosa" establishes an upbeat groove that highlights Danderfer's clarinet—warm, smooth, and tinged with the swinging clarity of pioneers like Buddy DeFranco, but with a modern twist. Additionally, Davis' rich tone complements Danderfer's fluid phrasing, creating an easy, conversational blend. "My Brightest Lights," a contrafact based on the harmony of the old song "My Shining Hour," swings briskly with joyful precision. The front line of Danderfer and Weeds participates in a lively exchange, their phrasing engaging in tight counterpoint. Weeds' tenor brings a grounded, soulful edge to Danderfer's agile clarinet. The middle section opens up for Atley King, whose vibraphone solo shimmers with a sense of play and clarity. This is followed by Abadey taking an energetic tour of his kit before the tune is taken out.

"Tumbletown" adds texture to the session, propelled by Abadey's nimble drumming and Weeds' earthy, soulful statement. Danderfer follows on bass clarinet with a solo of graceful restraint. The number swings with easy propulsion, its melody playful and rhythmically infectious. The title track, "If Not Now," is a reflective theme that stands at the emotional core of the album and is delivered with particular urgency, featuring a repeating melodic figure. Danderfer on bass clarinet, along with Weeds and King, convey the leader's message that, despite uncertainty, there is a call to action.

"Garden of Weeds" is a heartfelt tribute to Cory Weeds, acknowledging him not just as a collaborator but as a vital supporter of today's jazz scene. The tune moves swiftly with a syncopated theme that suggests both playfulness and reverence. Solos by Danderfer, Davis, and Weeds are animated and full of character. The rhythm section maintains a lively groove throughout, with Yamanaka's piano adding a bright sparkle that lifts the group. The final track, "Tempest of the Times," serves as both a conclusion and a statement with just the quintet. Danderfer takes center stage, his playing riding above the ensemble with urgency and purpose, his lines darting and weaving. The piece mirrors the modern moment, uncertain and complex yet propelled by resilience as the band explores the song, playing off each other. The album encourages repeated listening based on the quiet conviction that creativity, in itself, is an act of hope.

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