Passion Flower: The Music Of Billy Strayhorn
SSC, 2020
8/10
Listen to Passion Flower: The Music Of Billy Strayhorn
The esteemed pianist John DiMartino is in great company here, as he, Eric Alexander, Boris Kozlov, Lewis Nash and Raul Midon pay homage to Billy Strayhorn with 14 of his classic compositions.
“Johnny Come Lately” starts the listen with upbeat and swift jazz sounds as the brass shines bright, as does the playful percussion, and “Lush Life” follows with graceful piano that follow suit to the sophisticated vocals from Midón.
Elsewhere, Alexander’s tenor sax prowess is on display in the cozy ballad “Chelsea Bridge”, while the soothing lounge sensibilities of “Passion Flower” are as timeless as they are soulful. “Take The A Train”, the album highlight, then finds the outfit engaging in dynamic instrumentation that’s unpredictable and frisky.
Close to the end, “Absinthe (Lament For An Orchid)” glides with agile melodies in the cautious delivery, and “Lotus Blossom” exits the effort with a key friendly and gorgeous finish.
DiMartino has enjoyed a 40+ career with 15+ recording of his own, and here he offers a tribute record of the highest degree as him and the players perform rich renditions that illuminate Strayhorn’s legacy.
Travels well with: Schapiro 17- New Shoes: Kind Of Blue At 60; Alberto Pibiri- Jazz Legacy