Colin Stranahan

Transformation

2006-05-08

The second CD from a 19-year-old drummer and band leader shows uncommon maturity as the kids allows a fine ensemble of surrounding musicians to dominate the spotlight while he controls the action from the wings with a steady, yet creative rhythm. To keep the youth theme going, pianist Remy Le Beouf is even younger, at 18, and his compositions are impressive. Guest trumpeter Greg Gisbert stands out the most of any one musician; perhaps that makes sense since the boys in the main group are intent to play as a team throughout. Age is served, however, via Colin’s dad, Jim, whose piece “It’s Not Always About You” is my favorite on the disc. 4/06 MJVD Jazz-Contemporary