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Walter Smith III: III
BySmith's third release further reveals his maturation as a band leader and composer. It is telling the way the release unfolds; unlike the "play as fast and as complex as you can" mantra, Smith takes a more thoughtful and unencumbered approach to encompass an equally cerebral yet rooted music that is realized by longtime comrades and trailblazers that include Harland, Jason Moran, and rising trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire
The first notes to be heard are sinuous, visceral and emotiveSmith's luxurious horn soloing in "Working Title." The motif develops into a controlled swing that's tempered by Harland's lively traps and Joe Sanders' exacting bass walk while Smith counters Akinmusire's steamy horn flight with his own energy. 35 years old at the time of this recording, Moran is the "old man" of the group and brings a unique sensitivity to the touching saxophone duo "Aubade," first heard on pianist's Same Mother (Blue Note, 2006). The set mirrors a group rapport that results in work that is organic as a conversation between old friends, an idea that is fleshed out in Akinmusire's "Henya"a tranquil yet stirring tune that floats like a feather carried by a gentle breeze.
With a group such as this, there are understandably memorable highlights. Alto saxophonist Logan Richardson lights things up in Smith's "Himorme," an up-tempo piece that appeared on Blanchard's Choices (Blue Note, 2009); a boisterous trio workout with Harland and Sanders in "Highschoolish"; and Smith's bluesy "Moranish," inspired by the saxophonist's work on Moran's 2009 project, "In My Mind," a fiftieth anniversary re-imagining of Thelonious Monk's legendary 1959 Town Hall concert.
III culminates with the quiet confidence of "Goodnight Now." The logic and fire of Smith's release is not found in trailblazing feats or complex ideas, but in the consummate way in which the music is delivered. There's something to be said for the art of simplicity.
Track Listing
Working Title; Capital Wasteland; Highschoolish; Himorme; Aubade; Byus; Henya; Moranish; Goodnight Now.
Personnel
Walter Smith III
saxophone, tenorWalter Smith III: tenor saxophone; Eric Harland: drums; Jason Moran: piano; Ambrose Akinmusire: trumpet; Joe Sanders: bass; Logan Richardson: alto saxophone.
Album information
Title: III | Year Released: 2011 | Record Label: Criss Cross
Comments
About Walter Smith III
Instrument: Saxophone, tenor
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