Volume 2- Generational
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
Listen to Volume 2- Generational
The 2nd installment of tunes that pay tribute to the Canadian jazz hero Phil Nimmons, these retro tracks are given new life thanks to Phil’s grandson, the pianist and arranger Sean, who brings along some of Canada’s finest with him.
“Arf” gets the listen off to a bright start with the lively brass and Ethan Ardelli’s drumming acrobatics, as Alex Dean’s bass clarinet solo really adds much to the formula, and “Islands (From The Atlantic Suite)” follows with a calmer pace of reflective, intimate song craft that welcomes Tara Davidson’s elegant sax prowess.
Halfway through, “Under A Tree” spotlights Mike Murley’s tenor sax skills for a cozy and melodic album highlight, while “Transformations (2nd Movement)” makes great use of an odd time signature for the frisky yet cautious, very modern sensibilities.
Residing near the end, “Carey Dance” bops and shakes with an infectious energy that utilizes Nimmons’ superb key progressions amid the youthful template, and “Night Night Smiley”, the only track with vocals, benefits from Heather Bambrick’s stunning pipes for a powerful and uniquely comforting finish.
A body of work that explores Phil’s immense range and eclectic nature, he turned 100 last year, and I bet it’s pretty exciting for him to see these old songs with a fresh coat of paint.
Travels well with: The Nimmons Tribute- Volume 1 To The Nth; Richard Whiteman- Very Well & Good