Andy Mckee: One World

Music is the universal language that everyone understands. Whether in the remote parts of a distant safari or the dense populace of an urban city, there exists a common bond that permeates every person who appreciates creativity. Jazz bassist Andy Mckee's new cd One World combines multiple world influences to arrive at a unique theme in his music that reaffirms the communication of music. With a contemporary feel that is full of substance, the music encompasses a global feel with exotic percussion, world rhythms, all blended in the roots of jazz.

Mckee, a prolific bassist has gigged with the likes of Jaki Byard, Charlie Rouse, and Edison Machado. His full-bodied sound and keen musicianship are at the center of One World. His lively bass lines are fluid and his solos speak confidence. Unselfishly sharing the spotlight, Mckee leaves ample room for the individual voices of his comrades. Multi-instrumentalist Alex Foster delivers heartfelt solos with fire and feeling thought out the session, whether from his throaty tenor in the opener "Finders Keepers or the smooth soprano lines on the post boppish "Fire Sign . The stalwart drumming of Idris Muhammed is always intact, and the skillful hammerings of Joe Locke's vibe and marimba work are sure to please. Highlights include the soulful "Ife's Dance and "Earth Sign with its percussion, bass clarinet, and marimba trance; and the final composition "Prayer which features a beautiful piano and string bow conversation.