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Randy Napoleon: Waking Dream
" data-original-title="" title="">Randy Napoleon has assembled a musical family whose shared history fosters a strong sense of cohesion, one that goes beyond the leader's skillful guitar work. Longtime collaborators bassistRodney Whitaker
bassb.1968
Rick Roe
pianoQuincy Davis
drumsLuke Sittard
guitarChris Minami
guitarJocelyn Gould
guitarBen Turner
guitarThe album primarily features compositions by
Gregg Hill
composer / conductorAnthony Stanco
trumpetThe title track, "Waking Dream," is a Napoleon original and a study in texture. The ensemble weaves counter-melodies and rhythmic cascades that elevate the piece into impressionistic territory. Roe contributes a solo that dances with lyrical ease, and Minami's warm-centred interjection fits the chart empathetically. "Cafe Brasilia" exudes a breezy Latin flair, with Napoleon constantly shifting through colours and shapes. Roe's solo glides effortlessly over the harmonic framework, while Whitaker remains grounded with a deep, resonant pulse.
As the album unfolds, it becomes clear that it is filled with color and artistic mentorship, shaping the compositions with elegance and daring. "Riverside Blossoms" is a delightful swinger and one of the album's most evocative pieces, blooming with lyrical grace and harmonic warmth.
Michael Dease
tromboneb.1982
The session concludes with "Boom Boom," a lively finale that captures the full energy of the ensemble. The rhythmic drive from Davis propels the piece with spirited momentum, highlighting the sharp solos from Minami, Turner and Gould.
Walter Blanding
saxophone, tenorb.1971
Track Listing
Super Moon; The Speckled Frog; Waking Dream; Two Thoughts; Cafe Brasilia; The Singer; 52 Pickup; Riverside Blossoms; Jo Jo Jo; Boom Boom.
Personnel
Randy Napoleon
guitarLuke Sittard
guitarChris Minami
guitarJocelyn Gould
guitarBen Turner
guitarRick Roe
pianoRodney Whitaker
bassQuincy Davis
drumsMichael Dease
tromboneWalter Blanding
saxophone, tenorAnthony Stanco
trumpetLangston Kitchen
bassMichael J. Reed
drumsAdditional Instrumentation
Lynne Brown: guiro.
Album information
Title: Waking Dream | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: OA2 Records
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