Wyoming Roads
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The piano and organ extraordinaire Chad Edwards is joined by Robery Kyle, Hussain Jiffy and Kevin Winard for these 5 originals and 4 standards that touch on the timeless qualities of jazz that we will always enjoy.
The title track starts with Edwards’ warm keys and Winard’s agile drumming for the rich opener that welcomes Kyle’s bright sax, and “Footprints” follows with a frisky mood, where Jiffy’s lively bass is quite exiting.
In the middle, the cultured rhythm of “Alone Together” is plenty soulful and doesn’t lack any grooves, while “Azure Sky, Sapphire Sea” has Kyle handling flute for the dreamy, textured album highlight that makes great use of the meticulous rhythm section.
Further still, “Trey” pairs the reflective sax with playful bass lines and mature keys, and “Tierney” exits with an intimate demeanor that allows the airy flute to float above cozy drums, bass and piano.
Edwards is also a physicist/aerospace engineer, and that strong attention to detail is reflected in these 9 tunes that embrace Latin nods, salsa fun and even funky bursts, too.
Travels well with: Ricky Alexander- Just Found Joy; Dave Bass- Trio Nuevo