JOSHUA REDMAN

Compass

2009-03-04

Harvard-educated Joshua Redman provides an interesting musical experiment on this latest set -- employing two bassists for most the cuts, one in each channel, and at times doubling up on the drum section as well. The "double trio" format is unusual and Redman wasn't sure that the arrangements would work: Would the music be too "bottom-heavy" and weighted down? The results, on the contrary, are striking and most of the "doubling up" sessions made the record. I think the emphasis on the rhythm gives the songs a fresh feel and actually make Redman's fine sax playing stand out all the more. I liked the cuts that build up steam as they progress, such as "Faraway" and "Identity Thief," plus the generally upbeat selections "Hitchhiker's Guide" and "Round Reuben." For the upper crust, there's a unique interpretation of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata." J-Esoteric 03/09 Michael J.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 04/2006

    Joris Teepe's Gronigan Art Ensemble
    Jazz In Jazz Out

  • reviewed 01/2008

    MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY ALL-STARS
    Live at the 2007 Monterey Jazz Festival

  • reviewed 02/2008

    THE MATT SAVAGE TRIO
    Hot Ticket

  • reviewed 05/2006

    Tunnels
    Natural Selection

  • reviewed 08/2005

    Organissimo
    This is the Place

  • reviewed 05/2015

    Houston Person
    The Melody Lingers On

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.