Reviews
JazzReview.com
by Glenn Astarita | August 10, 2006
www.jazzreview.com
Saxophonist Bob Reynolds conveys musical maturity beyond his years during the preponderance of this irrefutably, compelling studio set. With a clear-sighted game-plan intact, the artist infuses memorably melodic hooks into his compositional style. In essence, he demonstrates astute leadership qualities here throughout the preponderance of these attractive pieces.
Armed with an edgy tone, Reynolds pushes and prods his band via lyrically-charged soloing maneuvers in alliance with his quintet’s multi-layered harmonic textures. The saxophonist’s phrasings are akin to a vocalist’s storylines. Moreover, Reynolds is a melody-maker who employs pedal steel guitarist David Soler on two pieces, where the overall jazz vibe dwells within a charming and somewhat ethereal, C&W-hued slant.
Drummer Eric Harland’s snappy backbeats and brisk swing metrics provide a pliant bottom-end as the artists’ intermittently commingle the jazz element with gospel, blues and funk. On “Nine Lives,” Aaron Goldberg’s electric piano permeates a jazz-fusion vista, to complement his knotty unison choruses with Reynolds. And the ensemble is apt to break out into a sinuous swing vamp, featuring the saxophonists’ soaring lines. In sum, this endeavor showcases the best of several jazz-drenched attributes. It’s focused, energetic, and entertaining – all laced with the musicians’ soul-stirring episodes and passionately diffused soloing spots.
Heartily recommended…
