Brian Lynch - Unsung Heroes Vol.1

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2011
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:56
Size: 170,7 MB
Art: Front

(8:09)  1. Terra Firma Irma
(7:28)  2. I Could Never Forget You
(9:47)  3. Further Arrivals
(8:02)  4. Saturday Afternoon At Four
(7:26)  5. Household Of Saud
(7:02)  6. Roditisamba
(5:36)  7. Big Red
(7:10)  8. Unsung Blues
(7:11)  9. Wetu

Trumpeter extraordinaire Brian Lynch is always willing, quite rightly, to acknowledge the masters who have gone before him. Some of the finest jazz trumpeters never made it big, while others no longer sit as securely in the minds of jazz fans as they once did. Nevertheless, they are all part, as Lynch writes, of "the jazz trumpet tradition" and their talents as players and composers deserve to be remembered and revisited. Unsung Heroes is Lynch's salute to some of these players. It's a superb album: no mere tribute to past masters, it puts their work firmly in the present living, breathing, exciting music that is as vibrant in the twenty-first century as it was in the twentieth. Like Finnish pianist Iiro Rantala's own reflections on past greats, the stunning Lost Heroes (ACT Music, 2011), Unsung Heroes is the work of an exceptionally talented player. Rantala performed solo, but this record features a kick-ass band. Altoist Vincent Herring and pianist Rob Schneiderman are particularly strong, but every player impresses. One of the most stylish solos comes from bassist David Wong on Idrees Sulieman's "Saturday Afternoon At Four," a bop relative of Kurt Weill's "Speak Low."

Lynch's heroes on this album are players whose own work is predominantly from the bebop era and later, men who could play hard and fast but who could also swing, and play with feeling. The writing skills of many of these trumpeters were also exceptional, giving Lynch some terrific compositions to work with, some of which were never recorded by the writers themselves. Tommy Turrentine's beautiful ballad, "I Could Never Forget You," affords Lynch the opportunity to deliver a masterclass in pure-toned, considered yet emotive playing. Charles Tolliver's "Household of Saud" is a standout ensemble performance as well as featuring one of Lynch's more high-energy solos. Lynch's own tunes are just as enjoyable. "RoditiSamba," dedicated to Claudio Roditi, is smoothly seductive; "Unsung Blues" gives Lynch and Schneiderman the chance to stretch out with a deft lyricism. 

This isn't the first time that Lynch has paid tribute to his predecessors: Tribute To The Trumpet Masters (Sharp Nine) appeared in 2000. Unsung Heroes is volume one of an extended project, which includes some fascinating writing by Lynch on his website. The project is a great idea, and on the evidence of this beautiful recording it's also brilliantly executed. ~ Bruce Lindsay https://www.allaboutjazz.com/unsung-heroes-brian-lynch-hollistic-musicworks-review-by-bruce-lindsay.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch: trumpet, flugelhorn; Vincent Herring: alto saxophone; Alex Hoffman: tenor saxophone; Rob Schneiderman: piano; David Wong: bass; Pete Van Nostrand: drums; Vicente "Little Johnny" Rivero: congas (3, 6).

Unsung Heroes Vol.1

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Brian Lynch - Unsung Heroes, Vol. 2

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 71:16
Size: 164,4 MB
Art: Front

(7:39)  1. It Could Be
(8:14)  2. Heleen
(7:42)  3. Sandy
(6:55)  4. Short Steps
(6:09)  5. Marissa's Mood
(8:05)  6. Out / Dancing Shoes
(5:38)  7. Gone but Not Forgotten
(5:19)  8. 'Nother Never
(7:34)  9. Orange Blossoms
(7:57) 10. I'm so Excited by You

An aurea classicism substantiates the high artistic level of a superb trumpet player, able to absorb and reshape the tradition of his instrument. The latest Bryan Lynch CD is a fascinating excursion into the repertoire of the musicians' musicians of the '50s and' 60s, including Tommy Turrentine , Idrees Sulieman , and Joe Gordon of whom Lynch offers unpublished scores. The ten tracks proposed revive a brilliant technique, which starts from a full knowledge of the past to outline a path of strong emotional impact. The intent is to bring to the general attention some unrecognized pearls of jazz trumpet literature, in the belief that the strength of this music does not reside only in the most celebrated protagonists. Above all the ballads enhance the poetic and emotional voice of the leader when he is engaged in the flugelhorn. As added value, a vibrant expressiveness that seems to summarize the essence of jazz: communication, swing, ability to convey deep emotions, enclosed in the unrepeatable moment of bewitching improvisational games. And this is precisely the legacy handed down by the great trumpeters honored by Lynch, who gives us an engaging and palpating CD like few others listened to in recent years. It follows a highly recommended listening, thanks to a group of rare expertise and compactness. ~ Maurizio Zerbo https://www.allaboutjazz.com/unsung-heroes-vol-2-brian-lynch-hollistic-musicworks-review-by-maurizio-zerbo.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch: trumpet, flugelhorn; Vincent Herring; Alex Hoffman: tenor saxophone; Rob Schneiderman: piano; David Wong: double bass; Pete Van Nostrand: battery.

Unsung Heroes, Vol. 2

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John Beasley - Positootly!

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:16
Size: 113,3 MB
Art: Front

(5:04)  1. Caddo Bayou
(4:32)  2. Positootly!
(5:30)  3. Dindi
(6:40)  4. Black Thunder
(4:58)  5. Shatita Boom Boom
(5:28)  6. Tanguedia III
(4:53)  7. Elle
(4:45)  8. So Tired
(4:50)  9. The Eight Winds
(2:32) 10. Hope.. Arkansas

On Positootly!, pianist John Beasley explores a variety of styles for a thoroughly enjoyable and stimulating experience. Each track benefits immensely from the indelible touch of drumming great Jeff "Tain" Watts, in alliance here with percussionist Munyungo Jackson. Hailing from Louisiana, Beasley started playing in the late seventies, getting his seasoning with such jazz greats as Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard and Dianne Reeves. Lately, he has gravitated towards composing for film and television, but he continues to release new music and tour with his band. This recording follows-up Letter to Herbie (Resonance, 2008), in which Beasley presented an impressionistic take on Herbie Hancock's music. Besides Watts and Jackson on drums, the musicians participating here are bassist James Genus, along with the blistering front line of saxophonist Bennie Maupin and trumpeter Brian Lynch. Most numbers are Beasley originals with three notable exceptions. The standout is a knockout rendition of, Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla's tango "Tanguedia III." On most selections, Beasley plays piano, but here he uses Fender Rhodes and synthesizer to create bandoneon accordion effects essential to tango. It's uniquely tango-jazz all the way in 2/4 start-stop fashion, building to a dynamic climax.

Other selections range from funk and soul to bop and bossa nova. Staying in a South American vein, Beasley puts forth his take on Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Dindi." Genus' bass sets the tone for this soft reflective piece, with the piano delivering softly swaying interludes. Watts and Jackson, as expected, add complexity to the beat. A further highlight is Beasley's "Black Thunder," dedicated to the late drummer Elvin Jones, and featuring Watts as a positive dynamo with pounding sticks. Maupin and Lynch deliver stirring solos as well. On Beasley's vigorous "The Eight Winds," Lynch's muted trumpet effectively leads the pianist into a burning,double-time solo, again resolutely backed by the churning drum duo. For hard boppers, there is Beasley's opener, "Caddo Bayou," featuring the whole band in this energized tribute to the leader's hometown. For soulful funk there is Bobby Timmons "So Tired," with Beasley again On Fender Rhodes, framing Maupin's strong tenor solo. Since positivity is the theme of this CD, it is fitting that it ends with the piano solo piece "Hope, Arkansas," Beasley's stately ode to Obama's presidency. ~ Larry Taylor https://www.allaboutjazz.com/positootly-john-beasley-resonance-records-review-by-larry-taylor.php

Personnel: John Beasley: piano, Fender Rhodes, synthesizer; Bennie Maupin: tenor and soprano saxophones; Brian Lynch: trumpet; James Genus: bass; Jeff "Tain" Watts: drums; Munyungo Jackson: percussion.

Positootly!

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Brian Lynch Quintet/Sextet - At The Main Event

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1994
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 56:54
Size: 130,6 MB
Art: Front

(7:20)  1. Dance The Way U Want To
(8:09)  2. At The Main Event
(7:00)  3. Blues For Woody And Khalid
(9:59)  4. Cry Me A River
(7:50)  5. Nite 'Vidual I
(8:50)  6. Ecaroh
(7:43)  7. Nite 'Vidual II

Brian Lynch, one of the top hard bop-oriented trumpeters of the 1990s, is heard interacting with tenor saxophonist Ralph Moore, guitarist Peter Bernstein, organist Melvin Rhyne, drummer Kenny Washington, and (on three of the seven selections) Jose Alexis Diaz on congas. Lynch is a powerful player and, on this set with the legendary organist Rhyne, he gets to show off some of his soulfulness too. Lynch contributed the first three songs, the band performs two versions of Rhyne's "Nite 'Vidual," and the group also stretches out on "Cry Me a River" and Horace Silver's "Ecaroh." Although not innovative, this music easily fits into the modern mainstream of the period and is quite creative within the genre. Then again, all Brian Lynch recordings are well worth acquiring by straight-ahead jazz fans. ~ Scott Yanow  http://www.allmusic.com/album/at-the-main-event-mw0000100102

Personnel: Brian Lynch (trumpet); Peter Bernstein (guitar); Ralph Moore (tenor saxophone); Melvin Rhyne (organ); Kenny Washington (drums); Jose Alexis Diaz (congas).

At The Main Event

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Brian Lynch - Brian Lynch Meets Bill Charlap

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2003
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:28
Size: 143,2 MB
Art: Front

(7:58)  1. On Green Dolphin Street
(7:34)  2. Autumn Nocturne
(6:38)  3. My Heart Stood Still
(5:46)  4. Cheryl
(8:23)  5. Before the First Cup
(6:44)  6. Atras da Porta
(4:54)  7. On the Dot
(6:34)  8. Come Rain or Come Shine
(7:53)  9. Blues for Gilad

While he adroitly blows his way through a couple of medium-to-up tempo tracks with the edgy assurance of a veteran bebopper, the largest part of trumpeter/flugelhornist Brian Lynch’s latest disc on Sharp Nine Records displays a temperate approach to the music. A welcome relief from the clamor that characterizes a lot of today’s jazz, Lynch’s moderation as a player and bandleader is evident in a number of ways. He knows that melodies are to be relished instead of glossed over; tempos other than rapid ones make a positive impression; and music that breathes easily can be as effective as rough-hewn, densely textured sound.Lynch possesses ample technique and a full, warm tone on the horn, but it’s his ability to imbue every note with an emotional weight (minus any mawkishness) that makes this record special. For example, the splendor of his rendition of the ballad “Autumn Nocturne” makes time stand still; and the way he subtly invokes a feeling of yearning during the bossa “Atras da Porta.” Accordingly, Lynch’s solo lines favor measured, linear development over fireworks and showy gestures. Moreover, his bandmates, pianist Bill Charlap, bassist Dwayne Burno, and drummer Joe Farnsworth are all on the same wavelength, ably balancing the roles of support and self-expression, following or inducing subtle shifts in emphasis, and nudging the music forward in ways more fluid than forceful.

The record opens with Lynch’s treatment of “On Green Dolphin Street.” He revitalizes this warhorse by recasting it in 7/4 time. The arrangement centers around a nice, easy rolling vamp played by the piano, bass, and drums, and the bridge has a conventional jazz feel. In particular, the contrast between the broad click of Farnsworth’s rim knocks and portions of triplets to the tom-toms gives the music an irresistible, dancing movement. Beginning the round of solos, Charlap initially takes his time playing around Farnsworth’s and Burno’s variations of the vamp and then becomes more expansive over their straight-ahead groove. Utilizing a mute throughout, Lynch’s turn starts by lazily building melodic lines that float over the rhythm section. A shooting double-time phrase toward the end of his first chorus signals change as he digs in and becomes more dynamic, all the while prodded by Farnsworth’s brusque snare drum fills. The drummer’s decidedly non-linear solo is structured but not hemmed in by the vamp. He offers a loose yet calculated configuration of rhythmic fragments, such as a stick to the bell of the cymbal, long, rigid rolls to the snare and toms, and poking, three and four stroke shots to all the drums, some of which are mindful of Burno and Charlap’s persistent accompaniment, and others that chafe against it. Combining a strongly accented ostinato and a pensive melody, Lynch’s waltz “Before the First Cup” may not be a lyric writer’s dream; nonetheless the tune holds up well in comparison to the record’s selections from the American Popular Songbook (including “Autumn Nocturne,” “On Green Dolphin Street,” “My Heart Stood Still,” and “Come Rain or Come Shine”). Farnsworth keeps things from getting too settled by creating a choppy undercurrent with the boot of his bass drum, martial snare drum triplets, and irregularly timed cymbal crashes. Never straying from a romantic vein, the composer’s solo gradually moves from a dreamlike state to something grittier, as he increases the length and velocity of his lines.

The set’s closer “Blues For Gilad” is significant for the ways in which the rhythm section supports the soloists. During Lynch’s first two choruses, Farnsworth’s relaxed rim knock and tom-tom combinations provide an undemanding cushion. Conversely, there’s nothing rote about Charlap’s comping, as he moves from carefully chosen chords that mirror the drummer’s relaxed feel to those that shoot up and abruptly break off all without disturbing the trumpeter’s flow. At the beginning of Lynch’s third chorus, Burno starts walking for the first time and Farnsworth begins to keep straight time on the ride cymbal and the hi-hat. The music immediately begins to jump and the trumpeter swings harder and plays with more raw emotion. Burno and Farnsworth adopt a similar strategy for Charlap’s penetrating turn. Farnsworth serves up a slightly different rhythmic quality toward the end of Burno’s solo when he plays the lightest of shuffle beats, and carries it over into Lynch’s single chorus, right before the band takes the tune out.~David A.Orthmann https://www.allaboutjazz.com/brian-lynch-meets-bill-charlap-by-david-a-orthmann.php

Personnel:  Brian Lynch—trumpet/flugelhorn; Bill Charlap—piano; Dwayne Burno—bass; Joe Farnsworth—drums.

Brian Lynch Meets Bill Charlap

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Conrad Herwig - The Latin Side of John Coltrane

Styles: Trombone Jazz
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 70:04
Size: 161,0 MB
Art: Front

(1:17)  1. Blessing
(6:05)  2. A Love Supreme (Supremo Amor)
(6:52)  3. Blue Train
(9:38)  4. Afro-Blue
(4:41)  5. Naima
(7:59)  6. Satellite
(6:37)  7. Africa
(4:36)  8. After the Rain
(7:26)  9. Impressions
(7:44) 10. India
(5:43) 11. The Drum Thing
(1:20) 12. Blessing (Reprise)

A great idea beautifully executed by New York trombonist Conrad Herwig. The trombonist/arranger/musical director chooses Coltrane's most accessible material from a period that arguably spawned his best, most memorable work (1958-1964), devised simple, exploratory frameworks for each (recalling veteran Chico O'Farrill), then assembled an outstanding collection of musicians. In addition to Herwig's sinewy trombone, there's Brian Lynch on trumpet, Dave Valentin on flutes, Ronnie Cuber on baritone, Richie Beirach (who contributed to some of the arrangements), Danilo Perez and Eddie Palmeri on piano, Andy Gonzalez (from the Fort Apache Band) on bass and Milton Cardona on vocals and percussion. Selections are outstanding: "A Love Supreme," "Blue Train," (where Lynch trades fours with Herwig), "Afro Blue" (great flute solo by Valentine), "Naima" (beautifully featuring Beirach), "After The Rain," "Impressions" and "India." Throughout, Herwig solos flawlessly, with a sensitivity and fire that's reminiscent of the source of his tribute. Herwig's record, more than Joe Henderson's recent big-band event, sounds like a natural conclusion. The arrangements and performances work well together and the Latin environment seems a logical foundation for Coltrane's passions. One last note: Astor Place has done a beautiful job packaging The Latin Side of John Coltrane , sparing no expense for trendy art direction that recalls some of the very expensive covers Limelight Records put out in the mid 60s. Recommended. ~ Douglas Payne https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-latin-side-of-john-coltrane-conrad-herwig-astor-place-review-by-douglas-payne.php

Personnel: Conrad Herwig - trombone, musical director;  Brian Lynch - trumpet;  Alex Sippiagin - trumpet;  Mike Ponella - trumpet;  Ray Vega - trumpet;  Dave Valentin - concert flute, alto flute, bass flute;   Ronnie Cuber - baritone saxophone;  Gary Smulyan - baritone saxophone;   Danilo Pérez - piano; Eddie Palmieri - piano;  Edward Simon - piano;  Richie Beirach - piano;   John Benitez - bass;   Andy González - bass;  Adam Cruz - drums;  Jose Clausell - timbales, percussion;  Richie Flores - congas;   Milton Cardona - vocals, bata, congas, percussion;  John Coltrane - tribute to, composer

The Latin Side of John Coltrane

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Ralph Peterson and The Messenger Legacy - Legacy Alive, Vol. 6 at the Side Door

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop, Hard Bop
Year: 2019
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 105:10
Size: 241,7 MB
Art: Front

(11:01) 1. A La Mode
(10:11) 2. Wheel Within a Wheel
( 7:45) 3. The Core
( 9:07) 4. My One and Only Love
( 8:38) 5. 3 Blind Mice
(11:49) 6. Blues March
(10:07) 7. In Case You Missed It
( 7:54) 8. Along Came Betty
( 6:53) 9. Children of the Night
( 8:51) 10. That Old Feeling
(12:49) 11. Caravan

Recorded loud and live at the Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme, CT, Ralph Peterson the last drummer to play side-by-side with the incomparable Art Blakey delivers an unstoppable two-disc hyperdrive swing-fest celebration of his mentor with Legacy Alive, Volume 6 at the Side Door. It's no deep state secret that Blakey, with his effortless and effusive glee, seamlessly bridged all of jazz's thrilling variants: '40's swing and blues; the nascent bop and hard bop of the '50s to the soaring, exploratory avant-garde of the '60's. Fletcher Henderson, Chick Webb and Mary Lou Williams to Thelonious Monk and McCoy Tyner, Blakey drove them all with his relentless spirit and snapping snare. So, to mark Blakey's centennial year and his own 57th, Peterson, his rhythmic intuitions and understandings of Blakey fully engaged, presents his frothy sextet: saxophonists Bill Pierce on tenor and Bobby Watson on alto, trumpeter Brian Lynch, bassist Essiet Essiet, and pianist Geoffrey Keezer and a raucous, eleven-song set of smoking tunes long associated with Blakey and any version of his Jazz Messengers. Peterson, Keezer, and Essiet blow the Side Door open with "A La Mode," and the momentum fiery, free, frenetic never lets up. Watson, himself a Blakey alum, contributes "Wheel Within A Wheel," a rolling hard-bop blazer that sets the stage for Freddie Hubbard's "The Core," a real showcase for the horns. And the hits keep coming! Rollicking takes of "3 Blind Mice," Benny Golson's signature "Blues March" and "Along Came Betty," Wayne Shorter's fervent "Children of the Night" and a set-closing jump-romp of Duke Ellington's "Caravan" serve to prove the fact that, on any given night, in any given club with the right combo, greatness can be heard.~ Mike Jurkovic https://www.allaboutjazz.com/legacy-alive-volume-6-at-the-side-door-ralph-peterson-onyx-music-label-review-by-mike-jurkovic.php

Personnel: Ralph Peterson: drums; Bobby Watson: saxophone; Bill Pierce: saxophone, Brian Lynch: trumpet; Geoffrey Keezer: piano; Essiet Essiet: bass.

R.I.P.
Born: May 20, 1962, Pleasantville, New Jersey, United States
Died: March 1, 2021

Legacy Alive, Vol. 6 at the Side Door

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Dave Stryker - Blue to the Bone III

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2002
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 72:41
Size: 167,9 MB
Art: Front

( 7:57)  1. Stan's Shuffle
( 8:31)  2. Complicity
( 5:21)  3. Crazy House
( 6:05)  4. If 6 Was 9
(11:09)  5. For Jack & T
(11:20)  6. Going Home
(10:01)  7. So Long Eric
(10:43)  8. Soulful Mr. Timmons
( 1:29)  9. Doin' the Bone

Dave Stryker’s Blue to the Bone Band, ongoing since ’96, features the guitarist with three other rhythm players and four horns. Established to showcase his blues side, it covers the jazzier realm of the blues as opposed to primitive, gutbucket territory. The horn section (alto saxophonist Steve Slagle, baritone saxophonist and chief arranger Bob Parsons, trumpeter Brian Lynch, and trombonist Clark Gayton) functions as an extension of Stryker’s guitar sound, and the rhythm section (pianist James Williams, bassist Anderson and drummer Tim Horner) keeps the blues feeling true underneath. Stryker’s “For Jack and T” salutes the late organist Jack McDuff and tenorman Stanley Turrentine, two of the guitarist’s former employers. “Doin’ the Bone” is a short, funky cut with Tower of Power-style horns. Slagle arranged Charles Mingus’ “So Long, Eric,” and Williams and Parsons arranged the pianist’s “Soulful Mr. Timmons,” in which the composer takes a stomping, most satisfying solo. There are solid solos from all hands throughout the album, with the lesser-known Gayton taking honors here and there with his triphammer tonguing. Based on the personnel and the feeling of these performances, I’d like to catch this group live. ~ By Owen Cordle https://jazztimes.com/archives/dave-stryker-blue-to-the-bone-iii/

Personnel: Alto Saxophone – Steve Slagle; Baritone Saxophone – Bob Parsons ; Bass – Jay Anderson; Drums – Tim Horner; Guitar, Liner Notes – Dave Stryker; Piano, Organ – James Williams ; Trombone – Clark Gayton; Trumpet, Flugelhorn – Brian Lynch

Blue to the Bone III

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Dave Stryker - Blue To The Bone II

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:13
Size: 143,3 MB
Art: Front

( 4:27)  1. Rockin' in rhythm
( 1:32)  2. Goin' to New Orleans - introduction
( 8:07)  3. Goin' to new Orleans
( 5:43)  4. Sittin' on top of the world
(11:22)  5. 24 for Elvin
( 6:40)  6. Mystery street
( 5:18)  7. The squeeze
( 8:28)  8. Mood
(10:33)  9. Mug shot

Considering that forty-something guitarist Dave Stryker has made over a dozen albums under his own name, leads a sharp quartet with Steve Slagle, and is in constant demand as a sideman working in the past with Stanley Turrentine, Jack McDuff, Javon Jackson, and Kevin Mahogany, you'd think he'd be practically a household name. Unfortunately that's not the case, but his first Blue to the Bone project from a few years back did seem to attract some critical plaudits and bring into the circle some added new fans. And now that the second offering in this series has just made its debut here in America, one can only hope that the good vibes just keep building. As great as the first set was, it's without hesitation that I deem this new one a valiant leap forward. For the neophyte, the concept is really quite simple- get together a modest-sized horn section, bring a B-3 along, and write some charts that accent a "blue" point of view. But while the prior record leaned a bit more on the classic 12-bar blues form, this set offers up a colorful diversity in terms of song structure. Of course, Stryker can get down with his bad self, as he more than adequately proves on a cover of Howlin' Wolf's "Sittin' On the Top of the World." Somehow the spicy gumbo of the Crescent City proves to be a perfect adjunct to the blues in Stryker's mind, with both originals "Mystery Street" and "Goin' To New Orleans" spurred on by Adam Nussbaum's "second line" drumming and the guitarist's processed tone, akin to a slide-steel at times. 

His solo spot on the former makes potent use of distortion and note bending. Balanced by an Ellington gem and a Steve Slagle original, a few tunes that have been previously recorded get a facelift too, including "Mood" and "24 For Elvin," an extended form with a modal quality to it that does indeed suggest Elvin Jones' work with the classic John Coltrane quartet. Sharing the solo honors with Stryker and equally beguiling in the long run are trumpeter Brian Lynch, alto saxophonist Steve Slagle, pianist Bruce Barth, and drummer Adam Nussbaum. They, along with the charts and an elation that the blues almost paradoxically provide, make for an end product that is indeed greater than the sum of the parts. Now, here's waiting with baited breath for the release of Stryker's latest project inspired by Miles Davis' Bitches Brew period. Bring it on SteepleChase! 

~ C.Andrew Hovan https://www.allaboutjazz.com/blue-to-the-bone-ii-dave-stryker-steeplechase-records-review-by-c-andrew-hovan.php

Personnel: Dave Stryker- guitar, Brian Lynch- trumpet, Steve Slagle- alto sax & flute, Clark Gayton- trombone, Bob Parsons- baritone saxophone, Bruce Barth- piano & organ, Jay Anderson- bass, Adam Nussbaum- drums

Blue To The Bone II

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Melvin Rhyne - The Legend

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 61:45
Size: 141.4 MB
Styles: Bop, B3 Organ jazz
Year: 1992
Art: Front

[ 6:47] 1. Licks A-Plenty
[ 9:46] 2. Serenata
[ 5:54] 3. Stompin' At The Savoy
[ 5:34] 4. The Trick Bag
[ 8:30] 5. Old Folks
[ 6:52] 6. Next Time You See Me
[ 5:38] 7. Groovin' High
[12:42] 8. Blues For Wes

Peter Bernstein - Guitar; Don Braden - Tenor sax; Brian Lynch - Trumpet; Melvin Rhyne - Organ; Kenny Washington - Drums.

Other than an obscure date for Jazzland in 1960, this CD was organist Melvin Rhyne's debut as a leader. Famous for his association with Wes Montgomery but in obscurity ever since in Milwaukee, Rhyne gradually emerged during the late '80s and was found to still be in prime form. Joined by guitarist Peter Bernstein and drummer Kenny Washington, Rhyne had the rare opportunity of being the center of attention on this set, which includes a variety of standards (such as "Groovin' High," "Old Folks" and "Stompin' at the Savoy") plus Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis' "Licks A-Plenty" and Montgomery's "The Trick Bag." The easily recommended CD concludes with a lengthy "Blues for Wes," which finds trumpeter Brian Lynch and tenor saxophonist Don Braden making the group a quintet. ~Scott Yanow

The Legend mc
The Legend zippy

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Brian Lynch - Madera Latino: A Latin Jazz Interpretation On The Music Of Woody Shaw

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 109:29
Size: 250.6 MB
Styles: Latin jazz
Year: 2016
Art: Front

[10:24] 1. Zoltan (Feat. Dave Douglas, Etienne Charles & Diego Urcola)
[ 7:32] 2. Sweet Love Of Mine (Feat. Michael Rodriguez)
[11:17] 3. Time Is Right (Feat. Sean Jones & Philip Dizack)
[ 8:28] 4. Just A Ballad For Woody
[ 8:34] 5. In A Capricornian Way (Feat. Dave Douglas)
[ 9:09] 6. Blues For Woody And Khalid (Feat. Sean Jones & Philip Dizack)
[ 9:06] 7. Tomorrow's Destiny (Feat. Sean Jones)
[ 9:58] 8. Joshua C. (Feat. Michael Rodriguez & Josh Evans)
[ 8:28] 9. On The New Ark (Feat. Dave Douglas & Etienne Charles)
[11:11] 10. Song Of Songs (Feat. Michael Rodriguez & Josh Evans)
[15:18] 11. Madera Latino Suite (Feat. Etienne Charles & Diego Urcola)

Brian Lynch trumpet; Sean Jones trumpet (#3,6,7); Dave Douglas trumpet (#1,5,9); Michael Rodriguez trumpet (#2,4,8,10); Etienne Charles trumpet (#1,9 11); Diego Urcola trumpet (#1,11); Josh Evans trumpet (#4, 8, 10); Philip Dizack trumpet (#3, 6);Bryan Davis trumpet (#11); Zaccai Curtis piano; Luques Curtis bass; Obed Calvaire drums (#2,3,5,6,7,8,10); Pedrito Martinez timbales (#1,5,9,11), congas (#3,6,7); Little Johnny Rivero congas (#1,2,4,5,8-11), percussion (#11); Anthony Carrilo bongo, campana (#1,5,9,11). Recorded August 2012 at Systems Two, Brooklyn NY.

Four years in the making, Grammy© Award winning trumpeter Brian Lynch’s “Madera Latino” (Latin Wood) project, exploring the music of jazz innovator and master trumpeter Woody Shaw in a Latin Jazz format, is out on Hollistic MusicWorks! The music of the late, great Woody Shaw (1944-1989) - an innovative and highly individual musical lexicon, expressed through both his chosen instrument of trumpet and his equally distinguished compositions - set a standard of excellence and modernity for Black American Music that has not been surpassed in the 50 years since he first came onto the jazz scene. Madera Latino is an exploration of this giant’s music as viewed through the lens of authentic Afro-Caribbean rhythm and framed by the loving treatment of his compositions in virtuosic Latin Jazz style by Grammy© Award winning trumpeter Brian Lynch. It is also a heartfelt tribute to the genius of Woody by a all star lineup of today’s top trumpeters: Lynch, Sean Jones, Dave Douglas, Diego Urcola, Michael Rodriguez, Etienne Charles, Josh Evans, and Philip Dizack.

In trumpet combinations from duo to quartet, these eminent horns explore Shaw classics including In A Capricornian Way, Tomorrow’s Destiny, Zoltan, Song Of Songs, Sweet Love Of Mine, and more, along with two original pieces - one a extended suite - written by Lynch in salute to the profound influence Woody has had on him as a player and composer. The band for Madera Latino fulfills the promise of Lynch’s audacious concept with élan, precision, and joyous creativity. Percussionists Pedrito Martinez and Little Johnny Rivero, along with bassist Luques Curtis, were integral to the success of Lynch’s 2006 CD Simpático, a Grammy@ Award winner in the Latin Jazz category. Add drummer Obed Calvaire, percussionist Anthony Carrillo, and pianist Zaccai Curtis, and a mighty rhythm section emerges to spur and challenge the trumpeters to their utmost efforts in praise of Shaw.

"The combination of Woody’s music and the Afro-Caribbean clave concept was always a natural to me”, states Lynch. “I'm very happy, after many years of thinking about this idea, to finally be able to actualize this tribute to my musical hero, Woody Shaw, in the distinguished company of these amazing trumpeters and my musical family.”

"I am very proud of what Brian has done with this project, and particularly of the depth of sincerity and the meticulousness with which he has treated the re-interpretation of Woody Shaw's original works within the Afro-Latino idiom. My respect and gratitude go out to the musicians on this recording for keeping the spirit of this music - and of one of its last great innovators - alive and strong in the 21st century.” ~Woody Louis Armstrong Shaw, III

Madera Latino: A Latin Jazz Interpretation On The Music Of Woody Shaw mc
Madera Latino: A Latin Jazz Interpretation On The Music Of Woody Shaw zippy

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Brian Lynch Latin Jazz Sextet - ConClave

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 70:19
Size: 161,4 MB
Art: Front

( 6:58)  1. Tom Harrell
( 6:28)  2. La Sitiera
( 9:47)  3. J.B's Dilemma
( 8:07)  4. Across The Bridge
( 8:36)  5. Liberated Brother
(13:00)  6. La Mulata Rumbera
( 7:23)  7. Awe Shocks
( 9:56)  8. Invitation

The spirit of the clave flows freely through the blood of Brian Lynch. For many years the veteran trumpeter has formed an extensive body of work flourishing in both straight-ahead and Latin jazz styles via associations with Phil Woods, Horace Silver, the Buena Vista Social Club, Eddie Palmieri, and many others. He also has worked with younger artists like drummer Dafnis Prieto, pianist Luis Perdomo, and saxophonist Miguel Zenon, who are also writing new chapters in pan Afro-Latin music.ConClave is Lynch's latest document of music, continuing in the vein of 2004's Que Viva Coltrane, a collaborative effort with trombonist Conrad Herwig. With the inventive horn arrangments and the rhythmic pulse of drums and percussion, this mix of new music is vibrant, danceable, and satisfying, due in much part to Lynch's leadership and a very hot band.The music is set ablaze from the start on "Tom Harrell with a bright sax/trumpet combo girded against a bopping tempo. But even when the tempo slows on the lovely "La Sietiera, the heat is still felt. This passion is maintained collectively and individually by the contributions of each musician. On "La Mulata Rumbera, which clocks in at thirteen minutes, all instruments move as one yet each expresses its own voice with detailed solos winding through labyrinth patterns. Lynch is to be commended for producing a recording which exemplifies good jazz, whether it's Latin or any other style. ~ Mark F.Turner https://www.allaboutjazz.com/conclave-brian-lynch-criss-cross-review-by-mark-f-turner.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch: trumpet; Ralph Bowen: tenor saxophone; Luis Perdomo: piano; Boris Kozlov: bass; Ruben Rodriguez: bass; Ernesto Simpson: drums; Roberto Quintero: percussion.

ConClave

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Conrad Herwig - The Latin Side Of Wayne Shorter

Styles: Trombone Jazz
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 71:47
Size: 167,4 MB
Art: Front

( 6:56)  1. Ping Pong
( 8:52)  2. Tom Thumb
( 8:44)  3. El Gaucho
( 8:16)  4. Night Dreamer
( 8:02)  5. This Is For Albert
( 8:18)  6. Adam's Apple
(11:24)  7. Masqualero
(11:11)  8. Footprints

Luis Perdomo is the regular pianist in Conrad Herwig's septet. He delivers a sterling, elegant solo on "Ping Pong," the opening cut on The Latin Side of Wayne Shorter, recorded live at the Blue Note in New York. He anchors the first five songs with such skill that at the end of "This Is for Albert," Herwig singles him out for the audience's applause. Unfortunately, it's to say goodbye. When salsa legend Eddie Palmieri takes over on piano, the concert is sent into orbit. Perdomo never stood a chance.  "Adam's Apple" may not be Shorter's greatest composition, but Palmieri makes a convincing case with syncopated montuno vamps that drive drummer Robby Ameen's funky backbeat and inspire baritone saxophonist Ronnie Cuber's sly comments and robust soloing. Palmieri taps into "Masquelero"'s heart of darkness and Herwig's tone on trombone is elusive and introverted, before trumpeter Brian Lynch takes a note-bending solo that slides itself into the piano's rhythms like mortar. Herwig and Lynch's simpatico playing is the highlight of "Footprints," each of them winding similarly smooth and uncluttered solos around Pedro Martinez' congas. This is the third installment in Herwig's Latin Side series (following interpretations of Coltrane and Miles) and features silky virtuosic musicianship applied to intricate, intelligent, original compositions. Shorter's tunes are well-known and highly regarded as being flexible enough to suit a variety of instrumental lineups. Since he's gathered his own multi-horn groups in the past, the sound of these arrangements doesn't stray too far from his initial conceptions. But if you know a person who thinks jazz is difficult to get, lacks melody, or you can't dance to it, this is a CD that will change their mind. ~ Jeff Stockton https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-latin-side-of-wayne-shorter-conrad-herwig-half-note-records-review-by-jeff-stockton.php

Personnel: Conrad Herwig: trombone; Brian Lynch: trumpet; Ronnie Cuber: baritone sax; Eddie Palmieri, Luis Perdomo: piano; Ruben Rodriguez: bass; Robby Ameen: drums; Pedro Martinez: congas.

The Latin Side Of Wayne Shorter

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Brian Lynch - Tribute to The Trumpet Masters

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:24
Size: 155,5 MB
Art: Front

( 7:12)  1. Woody Shaw
( 7:51)  2. Eclipse
( 7:27)  3. Bus Stop Serenade
( 7:49)  4. Tom Harrell
( 6:05)  5. Elusive
(10:48)  6. Search for The New Land
( 6:05)  7. Tribute to Blue
( 9:19)  8. Charles Tolliver
( 4:44)  9. Opening Statement

From stints with Horace Silver and Art Blakey to those with such Latin luminaries as Hector LaVoe and Eddie Palmieri, trumpeter Brian Lynch has learned his lessons well. First turning a few heads with his solid series of dates as a leader for Criss Cross, Lynch made the move to the fledgling Sharp Nine label in 1995. There he would record his first volume of quartet recordings, Keep Your Circle Small, to be followed two years later with the multifaceted Spheres of Influence. Spheres would prove to be a hard act to follow, owing to its elaborate and far-ranging implications, yet Lynch’s second set of quartet recordings as documented on the newly issued Tribute to the Trumpet Masters is far from being any kind of letdown. In fact, it not only acts as a solid homage but also testifies to Lynch’s talent as a lead voice. There have been relatively few records in the jazz annals sporting just a trumpeter with rhythmic backing (standouts for this reviewer would have to include Kenny Dorham’s Quiet Kenny and Ted Curson’s Fire Down Below ). The instrument is a demanding one and it’s often easier to include a saxophone in the front line to balance out the leadership chores. But as he did on Keep Your Circle Small, Lynch once again proves that the quartet setting can be a viable one for trumpet.

Lynch has also shrewdly avoided just picking out tunes by the trumpeters he’s chosen to spotlight. Out of the nine cuts on the disc, over half of them are Lynch originals and each one sports a title that lays claim to the artist being feted. The most impressive of these are the sprightly “Woody Shaw” and the propulsive bossa of “Tom Harrell,” which recalls such Harrell compositions as “Moon Alley” and “Sail Away.” Freddie Hubbard’s “Eclipse” provides a magnificent ballad forum for Lynch and both Booker Little’s “Opening Statement” and Lee Morgan’s “Search For the New Land” are valuable pieces seldom if ever done by modern day players. Lynch is extraordinary throughout in both lead and solo statements, with motivated backing coming from pianist Mulgrew Miller, bassist Essiet Essiet, and drummer Carl Allen. In fact, this may be Miller’s finest work of recent vintage; he absolutely tears it up on the aforementioned “Woody Shaw.” So while there may be a few years of delay between releases from Lynch, they’re always worth the wait and his recent Sharp Nine dates have yet to disappoint. ~ C.Andrew Hovan https://www.allaboutjazz.com/tribute-to-the-trumpet-masters-brian-lynch-sharp-nine-records-review-by-c-andrew-hovan.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch- trumpet, Mulgrew Miller- piano, Essiet Essiet- bass, Carl Allen- drums

Tribute to The Trumpet Masters

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The Brian Lynch/Eddie Palmieri Project - Simpático

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2006
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:43
Size: 153,9 MB
Art: Front

(7:54)  1. The Palmieri Effect
(5:25)  2. Que Seria La Vida
(8:52)  3. Guajira Dubois
(6:03)  4. Jazz Impromptu
(8:39)  5. Paginas De Mujer
(8:18)  6. Slippery
(8:24)  7. Jazzucar
(6:15)  8. Tema Para Marissa
(6:50)  9. Freehands

Two decades of working as a highly accomplished trumpeter in Eddie Palmieri's Latin jazz band has culminated for Brian Lynch with this completely ravishing recording alongside his musical mentor. While the name of the group might raise the question of "who's on first?", rest assured that this is an inspired collaboration with the less-celebrated Lynch firmly at the helm. Most of the tunes are his, and the versions of Palmieri's pieces are marked by Lynch's hand. In fact, this album marshals some playing from Palmieri, particularly on the tumbling "The Palmieri Effect," which opens the album with a roar from Palmieri's piano, that I've missed from some recent discs under Palmieri's leadership. While the program of Simpatico is clearly Latin jazz and Palmieri's salsified McCoy Tynerisms are resplendently prominent throughout, there are lovely selections that wouldn't be expected on a Palmieri album. One example is the Lynch original "Jazz Impromptu," which has a sound you'd expect from a hard-blowing Blue Note session from decades ago. The bop roots in Lynch's original compositions are even evident in a guajira-chacha like "Guajira Dubois," where guest alto saxophonist Phil Woods, hardly a supreme Latin jazzman, brings an interesting bop sensibility to the proceedings.

The seventeen musicians (in addition to the superstar Palmieri) are all playing at the top of their game, bringing out an acute brilliance in Lynch's playing that I've never heard so thrillingly projected. But the biggest surprise among this crowd of talent is the Mexican-American diva Lila Downs. Her vocals have a dusky sensuality and subtle understatement that compels re-visioning just how extroverted a great Latin jazz vocalist need be. Lynch may have revolutionized the already rising career of Downs by showcasing her in a context so far removed from her own recordings, which are deeply rooted in traditional Mexican song.  

There's a move afoot in the jazz world to expand the parameters of Latin jazz, with Hilary Noble, Rebecca Cline and Dafnis Prieto among the prime instigators. In his own sweet way, in spite of being less radical conceptually in breaking out of a traditional Latin jazz style than those three musicians, Lynch is triumphantly pushing Latin jazz boundaries. This is a magnificent recording, whatever label you pin on it, and it makes you hope for more Lynch collaborations with his mentor in the near future. ~ Norman Weinstein https://www.allaboutjazz.com/simpatico-eddie-palmieri-artistshare-review-by-norman-weinstein.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch: trumpet; Eddie Palmieri: piano; Lila Downs: vocals; Phil Woods: alto saxophone; Donald Harrison: alto saxophone; Conrad Herwig: trombone; Giovanni Hidalgo: congas; Dafnis Prieto: drums; other players including Gregory Tardy, Mario Rivera, Boris Kozlov, Ruben Rodriguez, Luques Curtis, Robby Ameen, Pedro Martinez, Johnny Rivero, Edsel Gomez, Marvin Diz, Pete Rodriguez.

Simpático

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Brian Lynch - Madera Latino: A Latin Jazz Perspective on the Music of Woody Shaw

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2016
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 109:28
Size: 251,3 MB
Art: Front

(10:25)  1. Zoltan
( 7:32)  2. Sweet Love of Mine
(11:17)  3. Time Is Right
( 8:28)  4. Just a Ballad for Woody
( 8:34)  5. In a Capricornian Way
( 9:08)  6. Blues for Woody and Khalid
( 9:06)  7. Tomorrow's Destiny
( 9:57)  8. Joshua C.
( 8:28)  9. On the New Ark
(11:11) 10. Song of Songs
(15:18) 11. Madera Latino Suite

The asymmetric rhythms belonging to the Afro-Cuban tradition substantiate this extraordinary double CD by Brian Lynch , who with Woody Shaw shares the sad destiny of being a great musician, but not very exposed to the light of the big stages. With the missing trumpet player, Lynch also shares a love for an all-round expressive dimension, capable of incorporating both a lyrical and nocturnal dimension, and a more energetic figure. The work in question is emblematic in this sense, which incorporates the polyrhythmic trend of Afro-Cuban percussion with the more canonical symmetric times of jazz. The result is a gripping work where everything works wonders and once again confirms the whole class of the leader. As a common denominator, Lynch's rare ability to infuse with his mobile solism what seems to be the essence of jazz: communicative, pathos, ability to transmit deep emotions contained in the unrepeatable and unique moment of jazz improvisation. His big band fully captures and manages to return all the expressive figure of Shaw, as oblique and irregular as lyric and peaceful. His compositions are here revisited with admirable intelligence and originality to give rise to a project of stringent consistency and rigor. An unmissable album that adequatamante pays homage to the masterful artistic figure of a complete and ductile musician, who made the most important business cards of refined refinement and technique. ~ Maurizio Zerbo https://www.allaboutjazz.com/a-latin-jazz-perspective-on-music-of-woody-shaw-bryan-lynch-hollistic-musicworks-review-by-maurizio-zerbo.php

Personnel: Brian Lynch, Sean Jones, Dave Douglas, Diego Urcola, Etienne Charles, Mike Rodriguez, Josh Evans, Philip Dizack, Bryan Davis: trumpet; Zaccai Curtis: piano; Luques Curtis: double bass; Obed Calvaire: battery; Pedrito Martinez, Little Johnny Rivero, Anthony Carrillo: percussion.

Madera Latino: A Latin Jazz Perspective on the Music of Woody Shaw

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Brian Lynch - Peer Pressure

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1986
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 53:55
Size: 123,7 MB
Art: Front

(10:11)  1. Thomasville
( 8:44)  2. Park Avenue Petite
( 6:01)  3. Peer Pressure
( 7:00)  4. The Outlaw
( 9:00)  5. Change of Plan
( 4:59)  6. 'Nother Never
( 7:57)  7. I Concentrate on You

Lynch wrote three of the seven tracks, while Horace Silver, Benny Golson, Tommy Turrentine and Cole Porter penned one apiece. His trumpet sound definitely borrows from previous modern masters Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan & Bill Hardman, and the influence of Silver, Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and those of the hard/post bop movement cannot be denied. The latin tinge is also prevalent on the Brazilian bossa inflected "Change Of Plan" and Silver's Afro-Cuban tinged classic "The Outlaw." These two selections serve Lynch well for future excursions away from strict mainstream jazz. A rock solid date from a promising musician whose star is on the rise. ~ Michael G.Nastos https://www.allmusic.com/album/peer-pressure-mw0000410785

Brian Lynch Sextet: Brian Lynch (trumpet, flugelhorn); Jim Snidero (alto saxophone); Ralph Moore (tenor saxophone); Kirk Lightsey (piano); Jay Anderson (bass); Victor Lewis (drums).

Peer Pressure

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Brian Lynch Quintet - Back Room Blues

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1990
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:37
Size: 135,7 MB
Art: Front

(9:39)  1. Back Room Blues
(8:26)  2. I Waited For You
(8:47)  3. One For Mogie
(7:01)  4. Chandeks's Den
(9:36)  5. C.k.'s Bossa
(6:44)  6. Blues For Cramer Street
(7:23)  7. Confluence

Brian Lynch's second Criss Cross release features the fiery trumpeter in a hard bop quintet with tenor-saxophonist Javon Jackson, pianist David Hazeltine, bassist Peter Washington and drummer Lewis Nash. Although the musical style might be familiar, the repertoire (five Lynch originals and one by Hazeltine plus the Dizzy Gillespie-associated "I Waited For You") is not. Lynch digs quite ably into the largely straightahead material and the results are predictably swinging and creative within the tradition. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/back-room-blues-mw0000269853

Personnel:  Trumpet – Brian Lynch;  Bass – Peter Washington;  Drums – Lewis Nash;  Piano – David Hazeltine;  Tenor Saxophone – Javon Jackson

Back Room Blues

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Brian Lynch And Cuban Jazz Orchestra - Bolero Nights

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:17
Size: 131,3 MB
Art: Front

(7:50)  1. Afinque
(6:31)  2. La Sitiera
(9:24)  3. Celia
(6:38)  4. Fire Waltz
(9:42)  5. Delilah
(6:53)  6. I'm A Fool To What You
(7:15)  7. You've Changed

As one of the more exuberant trumpeters in Latin jazz via his stint with Eddie Palmieri, Brian Lynch might surprise his fans with this seductive and sensual album directing his Afro-Cuban-oriented orchestra. With five horns and on occasional the legendary alto saxophonist Phil Woods, Lynch and his band weave some magical and lower-key threads, not so much dedicated to Billie Holiday's music as inspired by her romantic spirit. Split between some well-chosen standards and original compositions, the band struts and sways along on the famous "Delilah," Lynch's easy cha-cha "Afinique," and the beautiful "La Sitiera." Only during the midtempo montuno version of the Charles Mingus evergreen "Celia" or the 6/8 arrangement of Mal Waldron's "Fire Dance" does the band really simmer or even moderately cook. Pianist Zaccai Curtis (of the Curtis Brothers Quartet) and Woods via counterpoint are outstanding in spots, while Lynch himself takes it down a notch throughout, setting the tone, and generously adding a sensitive but regretful feeling to the great take of "I'm a Fool to Want You." From luminous mambos or in serene, pensive underpinnings, this group really hits the mark for subtle yet clearly delineated music that Lady Day surely would have shed a tear or two over, as might we all. ~ Michael G.Nastos https://www.allmusic.com/album/bolero-nights-for-billie-holiday-mw0001969838

Personnel: Brian Lynch: trumpet and flugelhorn; Phil Woods: alto saxophone (3, 6, 7); Ivan Renta: alto saxophone; Alan Hoffman: tenor saxophone; Marshall Gilkes: trombone; Ron Blake: baritone saxophone; Zaccai Curtis: piano; Boris Kozlov: bass; Little Johnny Rivero: congas, bongos and percussion; Marvin Diz: timbales and drums.

Bolero Nights

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Jim Snidero - Blue Afternoon

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1989
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:32
Size: 135,3 MB
Art: Front

(7:57)  1. Enforcement
(9:57)  2. Forethought
(8:49)  3. The Trifle
(7:40)  4. Soul Eyes
(8:07)  5. Blue Afternoon
(8:19)  6. Infant Eyes
(7:42)  7. Toro

Saxophonist Jim Snidero is an adroit jazz improviser, composer, and educator with a bent toward acoustic post-bop. An author of several books on jazz improvisation, Snidero is an in-demand clinician who has taught at the Jazz and Contemporary Music Program at the New School University, Indiana University, and Princeton. Born in Redwood City, California in 1958, Snidero actually grew up in Prince George's County, Maryland where he first began playing saxophone at age ten. However, it wasn't until junior high that he became interested in jazz. While playing in his school concert and jazz ensembles, Snidero also fell under the influence of hard bop saxophonist Phil Woods, with whom he was able to study. After high school, Snidero enrolled in the University of North Texas music program. During his summer vacations, Snidero spent time in New York studying with saxophonist David Liebman, and after graduating in 1981, he moved to the city. By 1982, he was touring the country with organist Jack McDuff, with whom he also recorded three albums. From there, he found work with such established outfits as the Mingus Big Band and the Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra, of which he was a member from 1983 to 2003. Snidero has also performed with a bevy of names including David Murray, Frank Wess, Mel Lewis, Jim Rotondi, Maria Schneider, and many others.  As a solo artist, Snidero made his debut with On Time in 1984. Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder's studio, the album included fellow Akiyoshi bandmate and trumpeter Brian Lynch, pianist Kenny Kirkland, bassist George Mraz, and drummer Billy Hart. From there, he delivered several more albums for the Criss Cross and Red labels, including 1987's Mixed Bag and 1989's Time Out.  The '90s were also a fertile period for Snidero, who began branching out creatively, playing with legendary singer Frank Sinatra from 1990 to 1995, and authoring several jazz pedagogy books. During this period, he continued to release a steady stream of hard bop-influenced albums including 1990's Storm Rising, 1991's Urban Tales with trumpeter Tom Harrell, and 1997's Standards + Plus, his first largely standards-oriented recording. 

He rounded out the decade with a tribute to saxophonist Joe Henderson with 1999's The Music of Joe Henderson on the Double-Time label. At the turn of the millennium, Snidero began refocusing his work on his own original compositions with albums like 2002's orchestral Strings, featuring pianist Renee Rosnes, and 2004's Close Up, with saxophonist Eric Alexander. Beginning with 2007's Tippin', Snidero developed a fruitful relationship with Savant Records, returning with albums like 2009's Crossfire and 2011's Interface, both of which featured guitarist Paul Bollenback. Subsequent Savant albums, like 2013's Stream of Consciousness and 2015's Main Street, also found Snidero continuing to push himself creatively, collaborating on new material with bassist Linda Oh and drummer Rudy Royston. In 2016, Snidero released MD66, which found him drawing inspiration from Miles Davis' second great quintet of the '60s, backed by a stellar ensemble featuring Royston, trumpeter Alex Sipiagin, pianist Andy Laverne, and bassist Ugonna Okegwo. ~ Matt Collar https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jim-snidero-mn0000349095/biography

Personnel: Jim Snidero (alto saxophone); Brian Lynch (trumpet); Mike LeDonne, Benny Green (piano); Kenny Washington, Marvin "Smitty" Smith (drums).

Blue Afternoon

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