Dave Ellis: In The Long Run

The biography at http://www.monarchrecords.com/bio-ellis.html refers to saxophonist Dave Ellis as a "30-year-old rising-star saxophonist" who offers a variety of styles and preferences. The Monarch web site also includes samples from each of the tracks on In The Long Run. His early experience and few recordings only show the surface of what Ellis can do. His two Monarch recordings have proven that Dave Ellis is a "talent deserving wider recognition."

"The Waterbearer," written by Mingus Amungus pianist Muziki Roberson, is one of the most interesting pieces of the session, with Chimenti’s electric piano and Ellis’ soprano saxophone intertwining over a moderate tempo and dramatic scenery. "Monk’s Dream" is playful and quirky with features by Wehner and Ellis. Eric Reed’s "Evil Deals" – the title is an anagram of Dave Ellis – swings out with an easy carefree feeling. Both the tenor saxophonist and pianist create spontaneous work that never loses sight of the swing element. Joe Henderson’s ballad "Black Narcissus" features both the leader and pianist Reed in lush melodic territory. It’s an interesting sophomore session with promises of more to come from this young lion. Recommended.