The Heavy Hitters
Cellar, 2023
8/10
An aptly titled outfit, 6 of the best in the area of jazz come together for 9 tracks of lively and meticulous song craft that’s modern, but still takes influence from jazz’s past.
“Hub” starts the listen with Kevin Washington’s vibrant drumming alongside the bright brass in the animate jazz climate, and “New Day” follows with band leader Mike LeDonne’s warm piano guiding the reflective and agile melodic gestures that are quite dreamy.
In the middle, “Un Dia Es Un Dia” flows with Jeremy Pelt’s playful trumpet amid plenty of rhythm, while “Big Richard” focuses on Vincent Herring’s soulful alto sax to create an intimate mood.
Landing closer to the end, “This Is Something New” benefits much from Peter Washington’s skilled bass and Eric Alexander’s finger acrobatics on piano amid the swift melodies, and “Bluesit” exits with the meticulous rhythm section and stunning brass making for an exciting and timeless finish.
Certainly indebted to the sounds of old Blue Note sounds, LeDonne and company tip their hats to their heroes, but also create their own distinct version of contemporary jazz that truly embraces the immense skill of all the players.
Travels well with: Billy Drummond And Freedom Of Ideas- Valse Sinistre; Aaron Seeber- First Move