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Humphrey Lyttelton: In Canada
ByThe most memorable tune on the album is the Calypso flavored "Caribana Queen." It features the band's Caribbean beats and Lyttelton and saxophonist Jim Galloway both on clarinets. Galloway's lighter breezy tone contrasts nicely with Lyttleton's thicker more resonant sound as the two weave around each other dancing, flittering lines with thrilling agility.
On the bluesy "Sprauncy" Lyttelton's growling evocative horn matches Galloway's buttery thick baritone sax. The core of this loosely swinging piece is bassist Neil Swainson's gorgeously lyrical monologue. Lyttleton embellishes the theme with elegance and charming nostalgia but with a modern touch.
Swainson engages guitarist Ed Bickert in a lilting, warm and witty duet on the exuberant "Rain." Drummer Terry Clarke trades thunderous beats with the front line in an exciting and spontaneous performance. Lyttleton and Galloway overlapping phraseology form the captivating conclusion.
Lyttleton and Galloway open the Latin tinged "Squiggles" whimsically echoing each other. Bickert's eloquent and emotive improvisation and Galloway's expressive and organic lines transform the track from light and crisp to densely poetic.
Lyttleton marks the entire record with his joyous style and his burnished tone. His signature sound is best heard, however, on the brilliant "Lady Jeckyll And Mistress Hyde" and the languid "Looking for Turner." On the former he blows a delightful series of high notes over the rhythm section's syncopations. On the latter, after an intriguing call and response between Bickert and the band and Galloway's serpentine solo, Lyttleton nimbly brings the melody back to its source with his bright shimmering flourishes.
In Canada is an enjoyable and lively disc and one that captures Lyttleton in a rare, small group setting. Although his originals have not achieved standard status they are effective vehicles spotlighting both his and his sidemen unique musicianship.
Track Listing
It's A Thing; Sprauncy; Squiggles; Looking For Turner; Rain; Lady Jeckyll And Mistress Hyde; Lesiure Palace; Caribana Queen.
Personnel
Humphrey Lyttelton
trumpetHumphrey Lyttelton: trumpet, clarinet; Jim Galloway: soprano, baritone saxophone; clairnet; Ed Bickert: guitar; Neil Swainson: bass; Terry Clarke: drums.
Album information
Title: In Canada | Year Released: 2015 | Record Label: Delmark Records