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Randy Simon Jazz Project: Light It Up
Simon, who came to music relatively late in life, has proven a musical force with which to be reckoned. Each composition has its own character, evoking a specific style of modern jazz. For example, "Switchbacks" is swinging Art Blakey-esque hard bop; "You Shouldn't Do That" and "Let Me Tell You" contain Burt Bacharach-like unison horn lines; and "Leafing Out" is gentle, flute-driven, and pastoral in a manner that wouldn't sound out of place on Bobbi Humphries album from the early '70s. Yet at no time does Simon dabble in mere pastiche. His compositions betray his wide listening without compromising his originality.
Each track presents the musicians in different instrumental combinations with varying textures and top notch performances. The rhythm sectionpianist Adrian Cohen, bassist John Menegon and drummer Danny Whelchelkeeps things moving with its subtle interplay. Cohen, in particular, is one of the Capital region's best jazz soloists, and his contributions to this album maintain his high standards. Pete Bellino turns in some truly inspired solos, especially his flugelhorn solo on "Let Me Tell You." Paul Borrello's vibes are warm and gentle, enlivening each of the four tracks on which he appears. Kevin Barcomb does triple duty, performing on both tenor and soprano saxophones, as well as contributing delicate flute to the aforementioned "Leafing Out." Light It Up proves, once again, that great jazz is being made outside of New York City.
Track Listing
You Shouldn't Do That; Light It Up; Taking Wing; Getting Warmer; Counterflow; Switchbacks; Leafing Out; Let Me Tell You; Keep Walking; Saratoga (Through The Years).
Personnel
Randy Simon Jazz Project
composer / conductorRandy Simon: composer, arranger, piano (10); Adrian Cohen: piano; John Menegon: bass; Pete Bellino: trumpet, flugelhorn; Kevin Barcomb: tenor, soprano saxophone, flute; Paul Borrello: vibes; Danny: Whelchel, drums.
Album information
Title: Light It Up | Year Released: 2010 | Record Label: Self Produced
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About Randy Simon Jazz Project
Instrument: Composer / conductor
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