Dedications
Oppilf, 2021
8/10
Dr. Dave Flippo and his band bring us a very collaborative effort here, where Donn De Santo, Dan Hesler, Heath Chappell and occasionally Aras Biskis lay down 8 originals and 3 covers that are quite diverse and never short on melodies.
“Too High” gets the album off to a lively start with Hesker’s bright sax and Flippo’s agile keys adding much playfulness to the free jazz spirit, and “Finch House” follows with dreamy flute thanks to Hesler, as Chappell’s skilled drumming anchors the warm and melodic climate.
Arriving in the middle, the infectious and groove filled “Rehab” benefits much from Flippo’s diverse keys and Hesler’s meticulous sax, while “Freewheelin’” brings a very modern jazz approach to the Flippo original. “Karma Police”, an absolute brilliant track, then puts a clever spin on the Radiohead classic with precise bass work from De Santo.
The finals two tracks, both of which are originals, include “Spring Joy” and “Metamorphosis”, where the former glides swiftly with fascinating dynamics between the quartet, and the latter exits with 10 minutes of sometimes busy and other times calm and intricate songwriting.
An active outfit since 1992, Flippo’s current version of the band includes some of Chicago’s finest players, and their vast skill along with Flippo’s inimitable vision make Dedications an imaginative and really fun listening experience for the jazz inclined.
Travels well with: The Chris Saunders- Dancing With The Widow St. James; Francesco Amenta- Midtown Walk