Christopher McBride: Ramon

Jazz is a conversation that has been going on for over a century. Each musician adds their own statement to the discourse, and one of the most exciting aspects of engaging with jazz is the opportunity to witness and appreciate the various voices that emerge and contribute to this ongoing dialogue. Here is one such profound contribution, a riveting piece of art by the multi-faceted saxophonist and composer Christopher McBride with his sophomore album, Ramon. McBride brilliantly straddles the territories of hard bop, R&B and beyond, extending his artistry across genres and emotions while remaining deeply rooted in jazz. The album is an innovative and striking amalgamation of experiences and influences that seamlessly align into a coherent musical narrative.

Ramon opens with "Lady D," a tribute to McBride's mother. Bursting with energy, the track is a striking hard-bop-meets-modern-jazz piece. The raw power and momentum are emblematic of the fierce and determined woman for whom it is written. "Welcome," the following track, introduces McBride's ensemble with a touch of hip-hop, offering a glimpse into his dynamic live shows.

The third piece, "You Put A Smile On My Face," featuring Bobby Broom, strikes a perfect balance between swing and soulful modern jazz. Broom's guitar solo adds an extra layer of energy and depth to the composition, and McBride's saxophone solo intertwines beautifully with the enchanting underlying harmony.

"Bronx Unchained" is a thrilling exploration of the borough's history. Starting with the sounds of hip-hop's raw energy, the McBride composition develops into up-tempo swing that mirrors the borough's pulsating life. It is a powerful homage that exhibits both McBride's versatility and knack for storytelling. Subsequent tracks like "Your Eyes Can't Lie," "Intimacy" and "Postlude" deepen the emotional narrative, creating a mellifluous blend of R&B, soul and modern jazz elements.

McBride then shifts to a poignant social commentary with the triptych "Stand Your Ground, Pt. 1, 2, and 3." This is a deeply stirring tribute to Trayvon Martin and perhaps the album's emotional climax. McBride uses his music to navigate the tragic event, from the anxiety-filled "Suspicion" through the tense "Confrontation" and finally the mournful "In Memoriam." This track is a profound statement.

Ramon is a stunning testament to Christopher McBride's growth as a musician, storyteller, and cultural observer. This album is a melting pot of experiences and influences, capturing his roots and his journeys. Each track is a narrative in its own right, and together they weave a rich tapestry of genres, emotions and histories that speaks to the universality of the human experience. It leaves an indelible impression as a collection of stories told through the universal language of music. It is the embodiment of jazz as a conversation, an ongoing discourse in which McBride makes a powerful statement through composition. Overall, McBride's playing emerges as a potent, eloquent and a vital addition to the jazz conversation. Bravo, McBride, bravo.