Bridges
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A rising artist who is armed with exceptional skills in the area of saxophone and clarinet, Ana Nelson’s doesn’t disappoint on this debut that welcomes a handful of players for these 7 originals that incorporate classical and Brazilian nods into her timeless jazz formula.
“Wanderlust” starts the listen with lively drumming from Carter Pearson, as Nelson’s soulful alto sax and Jamaal Baptiste’s warm piano help make for a very playful lead off, and “Waltz” follows with Brendan Keller-Tuberg’s well timed bass complementing Nelson’s strategic clarinet on the more cautious landscape.
“Blue Flower” and “NelBap Choro” occupy the middle spots, where the former moves with a dreamy quality thanks to Marina Alba López and Jodi Dunn’s stirring violins, Alice Ford’s viola and Kevin Flynn’s cello, while the latter offers a bright display of meticulous clarinet thanks to Nelson’s melodic vision.
The final track, “Fruit Of The Groove”, recruits Jeremy Allen’s bass, Steve Houghton’s drums, and Nelson’s swift sax for a very dynamic and flowing exit that makes an indelible impression with its energetic swinging.
Although she’s quite young compared to her peers, Nelson plays with the skill of a seasoned veteran, and if this exceptional first album is any indication, expect great things from her in the near future.
Travels well with: Billy Drummond- Valse Sinistre; Craig Davis- Tone Paintings