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Joel Harrison: Urban Myths
This is powerfully intense music but also has a sense of play that keeps its ingredients engaging. The set opens with a groove that seems to emerge out of a mist—the curious air of the beginning suddenly develops into what Harrison calls a "circular groove" and keeps pulsing hypnotically thanks to the sterling solo work of violinist
Christian Howes
violinb.1972
David Binney
saxophone, altob.1961
Stephan Crump
bass, acousticb.1972
Daniel Kelly
pianoIn the extraordinary set of "Straight No Chaser" variations, Monk's tune appears in the midst of funk textures and serious compositional notation. There's a horn section too as Binney is joined by trumpeter
Ambrose Akinmusire
trumpetb.1982
Jerome Sabbagh
saxophone, tenorb.1973
Harrison lovingly celebrates an early New York champion, the late club owner Queva Lutz (of 55Bar fame), in the hauntingly beautiful "Last Waltz for Queva". With glowing guitar work, the tune becomes a kind of country, rhythm 'n' blues hymn.
These tunes are delightful reminders that electricity, jazz, a classical sensibility and more coexist powerfully in the music of Harrison. ">
Track Listing
You Must Go Through a Winter; 125 and Lenox; Mood Rodeo; Last Waltz for Queva; Straight No Chaser (variations); Between the Traveler and the Setting Sun; Urban Myths; High Expectation Low Return.
Personnel
Joel Harrison
guitar, electricJoel Harrison: guitar; David Binney: alto saxophone; Christian Howes: violin; Daniel Kelly: keyboards; Stephan Crump: acoustic bass; Jordan Person: drums; Fima Ephron: electric bass (2, 8); Ambrose Akinmusire: trumpet (4, 5, 7); Corey King: trombone (4, 5, 7); Jerome Sabbag: tenor saxophone (4, 5).
Album information
Title: Urban Myths | Year Released: 2009 | Record Label: HighNote Records
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