Communal Heart
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The composer and saxophonist Sean Imboden presents a Big Band effort, where a large cast helps flesh out the 5 involved tracks.
The busy landscape of “Fire Spirit” opens with Imboden’s sax surrounded by John Raymond’s bright trumpet prowess, and “Dance Of Inquiry” follows with Andrew Danforth’s well timed trombone amid the dreamy winds.
In the middle, “Certified Organic” benefits much from Joel Tucker’s thick guitar and Cassius Goen’s crisp drumming, as rock fueled ideas enter, while “Someone To Watch Over Us” recruits Matt Pivec’s graceful flute which complements the graceful textures and strategic brass.
The lush and melodic “Someone To Watch Over Us” exits with Evan Drybread’s stirring clarinet alongside Imboden’s flowing sax, where a heartfelt quality is present and appreciated.
A dynamic, articulate and timeless affair, Imboden leads the ensemble in and out of swingin’ moments and plenty of gentle ebbs, too, that we won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Charles Pillow Large Ensemble- Electric Miles 2; Pony Boy All-Star Big Band- This Is Now