Neil Gray: In the Streets

Neil Gray's In The Streets is a drummer-led session that, in its traditional sense, understands the purpose of records: to document a working conception of jazz rooted in lineage, discipline, and shared memory. Seven of the eight tracks were composed by Gray and serve as portraits of people, places, and moments, conceived not as abstractions but as lived experiences. The only cover is Cole Porter's well-known standard "Night and Day." The musicians here are fluent in bebop and hard bop, respecting the weight of these forms. They include bassist Conrad Good, pianist Bruno Hubert, trumpeter Julian Borkowski, tenor saxophonist Cory Weeds, and vocalist Leila Naderi.

"Frankie's Ghost" opens the album with intention. After Borkowski begins the piece, he and Weeds deliver a unison statement of the theme that is sharp and slightly impatient. Borkowski then moves into his solo, which is punchy and clear. Weeds then steps in with an improvisation that is full-bodied but never overdone. When it's Hubert's turn, he shows he is a pianist with a keen sense of space. "For Those in the Back" shifts the mood outward. Gray's playing is central here as he delivers with quiet authority and impeccable timing. Borkowski and Weeds furnish lines that unfold lyrically, speaking to listeners who lean in rather than sit forward.

"Latin Fiasco" is anything but. Gray masterfully maintains the groove with precision, avoiding caricature and allowing the rhythm to speak clearly. Borkowski and Weeds intertwine with lively, Latin-inspired interjections. Hubert's keyboard work is especially prominent here, dancing over the changes with percussive clarity, while Good keeps the foundation steady and unpretentious. "Shotgun Blues" brings the set back to street level. Gray drives the beat with conviction, and Weeds responds with a solo filled with grit and breadth.

"Seymour Street Shuffle" explores familiar territory, a city shuffle driven by smooth swing and mutual trust. Gray's time feels laid-back yet confident, and the ensemble responds accordingly with Weeds, Borkowski, and Hubert delivering solos that keep the groove steady and the statement genuine. On the closing track "Night and Day," Naderi delivers a vocal with clarity of diction and respect for the melody. Overall, the album captures musicians who understand where the music comes from and why it still matters.

 

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