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 12/2008

    MORGAN CHILDS QUINTET
    Time

  • reviewed 12/1969

    James Taylor Quartet
    New World

  • reviewed 03/2011

    Jeff Lorber Fusion
    Galaxy

  • reviewed 01/2008

    SHANNON BRYANT
    Oceano

  • reviewed 02/2006

    HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN
    Four Dead Batteries - Original Soundtrack

  • reviewed 05/2008

    Bill Frisell
    History, Mystery

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.