John Scofield Dave Holland: Memories Of Home

This album is fundamentally about rapport, deep listening, and a shared musical history that traces back to Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and the quartet with Joe Lovano and Al Foster.

John Scofield's distinctive guitar style seamlessly integrates post-bop, fusion, funk, and roots-based influences. His dry, idiosyncratic tone and subtle inflections have helped redefine modern jazz guitar, bridging generations through his work with Charles Mingus, Miles Davis, Gary Burton, Bill Frisell, and Joe Lovano.

Dave Holland, shaped by the innovations of Scott LaFaro and Gary Peacock, plays with a melodic sensibility, a rich, full tone, and an innate sense of swing. His technical mastery allows him to move effortlessly and authentically between straight-ahead jazz, free improvisation, and fusion.

The relaxed atmosphere of the recording reflects the duo's time on tour, where their musical dialogue was honed night after night. The album feels like an organic extension of that experience—a conversation between two jazz masters revisiting well-known compositions from their respective repertoires. Both artists play with the confidence and ease that come from being fully at home in their craft.

True to ECM's trademark clarity, the recording captures the depth of Holland's resonant bass and the quirky expressiveness of Scofield's guitar. The result is understated, reflective music that favors communication over display—a study in nuance rather than virtuosity.

At the core of the album lies the interplay between the two musicians. The contrast between Scofield's distinctive tonal character and Holland's deeply grounded bass creates constant interest, while their effortless exchanges of lead and supportive roles keep the dialogue fresh and spontaneous.

"Icons at the Fair" draws a subtle connection to Herbie Hancock's arrangement of "Scarborough Fair," with Scofield's octave figures offset by Holland's propulsive bass lines. "Meant to Be," from Scofield's songbook, is rendered with warmth and unhurried fluidity.

"Mine Are Blues" brims with rhythmic vitality, a testament to the duo's deep swing and cohesion. "Mr. B," Holland's tribute to bassistRay Brown, provides a platform for Scofield's more restrained expression.

From Holland's own band book, "Not for Nothing" unfolds in a 5/4 groove and ignites one of Scofield's most exuberant solos."Easy for You" stretches out generously, featuring some of the most heartfelt soloing from both players.

Finally, "Memories of Home" does not evoke Holland's real roots in Wolverhampton, yet its pronounced bluegrass tinge lends it a pastoral, almost American tone—a nod, perhaps, to his adopted home.

Comments