DYLAN TAYLOR

Sweeter For The Struggle

2014-05-24

Bassist Dylan Taylor's newest release Sweeter For the Struggle is exploratory in the sense that each track is an interpretation of different jazz disciplines. The opening track "Art the Messenger" is a clear ode to Art Blakey and introduces a groove immediately with Taylor's anchoring bass. In fact, this attribute is the only consistent part of the whole record - otherwise, the players and styles shift dramatically. With guests like Bobby Zankel, Tom Lawton, Craig McIver, Bob Meashey, and Steve Tirpak, there is no shortage of masterful players on Sweeter For the Struggle. Taylor also fulfills a long time dream on the album by releasing a new version of the Larry Coryell's fusion classic "Low-Lee-Tah" with the composer himself. As if the inclusion of boogie, fusion, Afro-Cuban, blues, and avant-garde influences wasn't enough, the album closes with a free interpretation of "House of the Rising Sun" with Taylor on cello. For radio play, I think "Art the Messenger", "Low-Lee-Tah", and "Winter Song" will get the best bang for your buck.

Recommended Tracks: #1 "Art the Messenger", #3 "Low-Lee-Tah", #5 "Winter Song"

Sig Steiger

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 06/2006

    Liquid Soul
    One-Two Punch

  • reviewed 03/2012

    JEFF LORBER FUSION
    Galaxy

  • reviewed 04/2007

    Steppin’ In It with Rachael Davis
    Shout Sister Shout

  • reviewed 09/2011

    SONNY ROLLINS
    ROAD SHOWS VOL. 2

  • reviewed 04/2007

    WAX TAYLOR
    Hope & Sorrow

  • reviewed 11/2009

    JOEY DeFRANCESCO
    SNAP SHOT

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.