The Point
Calligram, 2024
9/10
The pianist Ben Waltzer has a long history in the New York jazz scene of the ‘90s, and here he’s joined by Geof Bradfield, Clark Sommers and Dana Hall for 7 precisely fleshed out tracks.
The rich and lively “Kintsugi” begins with Bradfield’s soulful sax and Waltzer’s frisky keys making for much warmth, and the title track follows with Hall’s agile drums alongside the mature keys and heartfelt sax playing.
In the middle, “Skyward” makes great use of Sommers’ meticulous bass for the melodic and groove filled climate, while “Layla’s Dream” is indeed dreamy, where intimacy and beauty unfold via a distinct haze.
Arriving close to the end, “No Map” spends 10+ minutes mesmerizing us with its thumping drums, touching wind and dense bass lines that create much mystery, and “A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing” exits with Bradfield’s low clarinet aligning with gentle keys, bare bass and sparse drumming for the cautious finish.
A diverse effort that can swing with energy just as it can land in balladry, the blues bouts, rhythmic bursts and strong attention to detail makes this a must for fans of any era of jazz.
Travels well with: Andy Baker- From Here, From There; Chad McCullough- in these hills, beyond