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John Crawford: Times and Tides
By"Solea por Brixton" (the solea is one of the most basic Flamenco forms) puts a spotlight on drummer Simon Pearson and percussionist Andres Ticino. "Gabriel's Message" changes things up with a traditional Basque folk song, also a great percussion workout. "Nini" makes a Latin jazz tune out of Antonin Dvořák's "Slavonic Dance No. 2," with lyrics by featured vocalist Eleonora Claps. Remarkable how well the tune fits this new rhythmic setting.
Pat Metheny's "James" gets an exciting new arrangement, with Hill's guitar playing again a particular standout, as well as a contrapuntal guitar/piano duet. The final cover is an inspired choice: "Cono" by the great Malian singer Salif Keita, from his debut album Soro (Mango, 1987). A beautiful tune, with an Afropop groove that fits right in with the Latin onesand it also provides bassist Richard Sadler a great setting for a solo. Crawford's "Endgame" features one last guest, lyrical flugelhornist Shanti Paul Jayasinha.
A very fresh take on Latin jazz. Crawford's Quintet is a hot band, and the guest musicians each contribute something special without dominating the sound.
Track Listing
Blurred; Once I Loved; Solea por Brixton; Gabriel's Message; Nini; Miriam's Last Journey; James; Cono; Endgame.
Personnel
John Crawford
pianoJohn Crawford: piano; Guillermo Hill: guitar; Richard Sadler: bass; Simon Pearson: drums; Andres Ticino: percussion; Duncan Lamont Snr: saxophone (2); Shanti Paul Jayasinha: flugelhorn (9); Linley Weir: vocals (2); Eleonora Claps: vocals (5).
Album information
Title: Times and Tides | Year Released: 2016 | Record Label: Monpas Records