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Jake Leckie: The Abode
ByHe took the title from Alice Coltrane's concept of heaven, the Supreme Abode, as described in her memoir, Monument Eternal. He says: "This is not a political record, but I do believe it is important for us to realize that we are all migratory people. Through this project, by exploring my roots, I see where I came from and have empathy towards those leaving their homes, searching for a better life."
The title tune opens with a string quartet that includes the highly talented Japanese violinist Tomoko Omura. It is soon replaced by another, more jazzy constellation of the personnel, fronted by Kenny Warren's excellent trumpet. Next: the leader coming on like Charles Mingus.
"Negev," one of the most interesting numbers, adds a Biblical element to Leckie's searchings. He says it was inspired by Abraham's journey through the Negev desert after he was banished from Egypt. Little of this is discernible in the song, which moves along at a fair lick, posing the question: Did Abraham dance the boogaloo? Warren's trumpet states the theme, then Sebastien Ammann takes over on piano, before Warren returns for the conclusion.
"Metis" is a rip-roaring swinger with no need for spiritual credentials. Though, if he did dance, Abraham would surely have gotten off on this one.
"Morning Sound" is a soulful piece, opening with Ivey Paige's organ. Warren takes over on trumpet before the multi-talented Leckie leaps in and goes to town on bassa jazz star is surely born.
"After The Flood" features a vocal by 17-year-old Alexis Morrast, from Plainfield, New Jersey, a two-time winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo. The song, written by Leckie's wife Rebecca, tells the story of a love affair, one with a beginning, a middle and an end, but no tears.
Strangely, Leckie dedicates it to the people of Houston and Puerto Rico who are recovering from natural disasters.
Track Listing
The Abode; Metis; Bam Bam; Mutuality; Negev; Morning Sound; After The Flood; Perseverance.
Personnel
Jake Leckie
bassJake Leckie: bass; Kenny Warren: trumpet; Sebastien Ammann: piano; Nathan Ellman-Bell: drums; Caroline Davis: saxophone; Alexis Morrast: vocals; Daniel Prim: percussion; Andrei Matorin, Tomoko Omura: violin; Agustin Uriburu: cello; Ivey Paige: organ; Brenda Trotter-Workman: tambourine.
Album information
Title: The Abode | Year Released: 2019 | Record Label: Outside In Music