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Randy Napoleon: Waking Dream

By Pierre Giroux
September 8, 2025
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In Waking Dream, guitarist

Randy Napoleon

guitar
b.1978

" 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 bassist

Rodney Whitaker

bass
b.1968

" data-original-title="" title="">Rodney Whitaker, pianist

Rick Roe

piano

" data-original-title="" title="">Rick Roe and drummer

Quincy Davis

drums

" data-original-title="" title="">Quincy Davis form the rhythmic and harmonic foundation, while four additional guitarists ,

Luke Sittard

guitar

" data-original-title="" title="">Luke Sittard,

Chris Minami

guitar

" data-original-title="" title="">Chris Minami,

Jocelyn Gould

guitar

" data-original-title="" title="">Jocelyn Gould and

Ben Turner

guitar

" data-original-title="" title="">Ben Turner, create a rich sonic tapestry reminiscent of a modern guitar choir. Throughout the tracks, there are also special guests, each with a musical connection to Napoleon.

The album primarily features compositions by

Gregg Hill

composer / conductor

" data-original-title="" title="">Gregg Hill, whose songwriting has long inspired Napoleon, although several of the guitarist's own pieces also appear in the program. The opening track, "Super Moon," immediately establishes the mood with intricate guitar voicings layered like brush strokes on a canvas. The ensemble offers harmonic richness without sacrificing space or clarity. Napoleon and Gould deliver fleet-fingered solos, while Whitaker demonstrates his energy as a bassist. "The Speckled Frog" swings with subtle charm, driven by Davis' crisp drumming as trumpeter

Anthony Stanco

trumpet

" data-original-title="" title="">Anthony Stanco offers a polished solo over powerful playing. Napoleon and Turner showcase their versatility and consistent productivity as guitarists.

The 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

trombone
b.1982

" data-original-title="" title="">Michael Dease's rich, burnished trombone weaves through the ensemble with unhurried phrasing. Napoleon and Whitaker continue to demonstrate their skills as compelling and warm soloists.

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, tenor
b.1971

" data-original-title="" title="">Walter Blanding's tenor saxophone confidently steps into the spotlight with its rich tone and commanding phrasing, providing a dynamic contrast to the guitar textures. This number serves as the perfect ending to an album that thrives on interaction, color, and relentless creativity.

Learn more about our star rating system

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

guitar

Luke Sittard

guitar

Chris Minami

guitar

Jocelyn Gould

guitar

Ben Turner

guitar

Rick Roe

piano

Rodney Whitaker

bass

Quincy Davis

drums

Additional Instrumentation

Walter Blanding: tenor saxophone; Michael Dease: trombone; Anthony Stanco: trumpet; Langston Kitchen: bass; Michael J. Reed: drums; Lynne Brown: guiro

Album information

Title: Waking Dream | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: OA2 Records

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