Earth Wind And Wonder Vol. 2
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
Listen to Earth Wind And Wonder Vol. 2
The inimitable saxophonist Don Braden brings his exceptional vision to songs by Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder- 2 of his early influences- and he’s got some excellent company for the 9 exciting interpretations.
“In The Stone” gets the listen off to a rich, dynamic start, where Braden’s soaring sax is complemented by Art Hirahara’s lively keys and Jeremy Warren’s fluid drumming, and “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” follows with Kenny Davis’ thick bass adding much to the soulful climate.
Halfway through, “Profusion” allows Miki Hayama’s dizzying key acrobatics to shine amid Braden’s meticulous sax playing, while “Send One Your Love” finds an intimate place to reside via the dreamy brass, introspective piano and calm bass work.
“Creepin’” and “That’s The Way Of The World” exit the listen, where the former makes great use of Braden’s airy flute and Kahlil Kwame Bell’s warm percussion, and the latter bops and shakes with an infectious energy of cozy, harmonic, timeless jazz.
Braden sure does justice to these originals, and it makes for rhythmic, harmonic and melodic jazz sensibilities that sure are a lot of fun to listen to.
Travels well with: Alex Weitz- Rule Of Thirds; Nick Finzer- Dreams, Visions, Illusions