No Mentions, No Worries
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
Listen to No Mentions, No Worries
The composer, arranger and drummer Jonathan Mills turns in an excellent debut here, where the Atlanta artist is joined by Luke Weathington, Patrick Arthur, Tyrone Jackson and Tommy Sauter for the jazz friendly affair.
The title track starts the listen with Sauter’s playfully plucked bass alongside Mills’ proficient drumming in the rhythmic and busy climate, and “For Hadley’s Folks” follows with a calmer demeanor of soulful sax from Weathington, as a very intimate appeal unfolds.
“Solecism” occupies the middle spot and is quite lively with the dynamic guitar and well timed keys making an impression alongside a drum solo in odd time signature, while “Cool Out” benefits much from Jackson’s complicated but accessible piano prowess that adds a very stylish landscape.
“Wait For It” and “Sneak Attack” exit the listen, where the former is full of well thought out harmonic gestures, and the latter finishes with a swift and blues friendly moment that’s scrappy, bouncy and just so much fun.
Mills delivers an impressive first album, and the esteemed help he’s got a long makes for a timeless jazz effort that tips it hat to legends like Max Roach, Thelonious Monk, Larry Goldings and Elvin Jones.
Travels well with: Rodney Whitaker- Oasis; Griffin Woodard Group- Completion