Unexpected Direction
Lyonhill, 2024
8/10
Listen to Unexpected Direction
The saxophonist, composer and string arranger Alex Madeline is joined by an esteemed sextet and string quartet for these adventurous jazz tunes.
“Direction” begins the listen with warm, cautious strings, as Sami Steven’s expressive pipes enter alongside the fluid keys from Chris McCarthy, and “Balance” continues the creativity with Madeline’s dreamy sax that suits the poetic singing and Clemens Grassmann’s agile drumming.
The middle track belongs to “OR3”, where a mesmerizing intimacy unfolds with hypnotic keys, soundbites and Clovis Nicolas’ well timed plucked bass, while “Voyage” uses charming vocal scatting amid the lush rhythm section and Michael Valeanu’s glowing guitar for the album’s best.
The final track is “Dream”, where a light mood unfolds with elegant brass, much sophistication and sublime interaction, where the sextet’s precise delivery is much appreciated.
Madeline’s sax prowess is top notch here, and this debut is as unpredictable as it is engaging, is inspired by his journey as a young musician, and will strike a cord with fans of jazz from any corner of the world.
Travels well with: Stephen Phillip Harvey- Library Card; Chris Mondak- Blank With Colour