G2 And You
G2, 2022
8/10
The saxophonist, composer and educator David Larsen assembles a pair of EPs here, where Danny McCollim (keyboards), Josh Skinner (bass), and Brendan McMurphy (drums) accompany him across the 8 diverse and timeless selections.
“Angel Eyes” opens the listen with soulful brass, warm keys and plenty of emotion in the very precise climate, and this approach continues to the agile and glowing “Another Porter Please”, as well as the cultured rhythm of “Latin Silver”.
The back half of the listen leads with the playful sax and crisp drumming of “Autumn Leaves”, while “Bright Days” moves quickly amid strategic bass and well timed keys that help make this the album’s best. “Through And Through” exits the listen, and presents a graceful, flowing and lush version of jazz sensibilities that we could never tire of.
As always, Larsen’s performance is flawless, and the players on hand certainly illuminate his esteemed vision of jazz that occasionally swings, is often soothing, and will always be relevant.
Travels well with: Kenny Shanker- Vortex; Aaron Bazzell- Aesthetic