Words From My Horn
Outside In, 2023
8/10
The trumpeter and composer Anthony Hervery pens an impressive debut album, where Philip Norris, Miguel Russell, Isaiah J. Thompson, Sean Mason and Sarah Hanahan are in attendance for the 12 detailed tracks.
The dreamy “Crystal Stair” opens the listen with Hervey’s cozy brass and Thompson’s elegant keys making for a warm climate, and “The Rest From Yesterday’s Blues” follows with an upbeat and animated presence that benefits from Hanahan’s lively sax and Russell’s agile drumming.
Halfway through, the retro spirit of “Du-Rag” showcases Mason’s key prowess alongside Hervey’s intricate trumpet, while “But Beautiful” finds a very hazy place to reside with its intimate gestures and romantic demeanor.
Close to the end, “Better Days” bounces and shakes with much personality via the bright brass and Norris’ well timed bass lines, and “Words From My Horn” exits with a soulful, eloquent finish of focused and careful songwriting.
A listen that touches on jazz from the earliest versions to the most current, Hervey and company make music that is as creative as it is timeless.
Travels well with: Javier Nero Jazz Orchestra- Kemet (The Black Land); Alex Weitz- Rule Of Thirds