Swinging Sunset
Music Stand, 2023
8/10
The saxophonist and composer Anthony E. Nelson pays homage to the great jazz organ trios from the ‘50s and ‘60s here, where Kyle Koehler and Cecil Brooks III join him for the 12 well thought out tracks.
“Canadian Sunset” opens the listen with Nelson’s warm sax alongside agile keys from Koehler, as Brooks’ frisky drums make for a calm, stylish mood, and “One More Once” follows with an upbeat and playful demeanor thanks to the soulful brass and crisp drumming.
Halfway though, “These Foolish Things” finds a very intimate place to reside thanks to the moody organ and poetic sax, while “Minor Chant” bops and shakes with an infectious energy thanks to the animated sax and lively drumming.
Close to the end, “Three Little Words” has the trio collaborating with a groove filled dynamic that’s the album’s best, and “Last Call (For Gryce)” exits with a reflective tone that’s still quite adventurous and illustrates each player’s respective strengths.
This is Nelson’s 5th album as leader, and along with his talented company he makes for a performance that’s spiritual, emotional, moving and certainly does justice to the trios of decade’s past.
Travels well with: Mark Ortwein- It Was Time; Dave Bass The Trio- Vol. 3