Amplify
YSE, 2024
8/10
The esteemed keyboarist Lao Tizer is joined by guests Aaron Janik, Khristian Foreman, Carey Frank, India Carney and Devin Velez, plus his inimitable band for these 9 originals.
“Down” starts the listen with plenty of warmth, where Elliott Yamin’s soulful pipes guide the rich climate, and “Boulevard Of Stars” follows with playful bass and no lack of grooves, as Chieli Minucci’s lends his inimitable talents on guitar.
Further along, “Why” benefits much from agile drumming, soaring vocals and Tizer’s meticulous keys for the flowing melodies, while “The Labyrinth” features Karen Briggs on violin and Danny Janklow’s flute that adds much to the colorful and textured album highlight.
“Carousel” and “Lullaby” exit the listen. The former makes great use of Eric Marienthal’s bright sax amid the animated keys, and the latter lands in balladry thanks to the emotive and heartfelt piano.
There’s a nice balance between instrumentals and sung tracks included, as Tizer and his company mix R&B, jazz, world music and jam band nods into unclassifiable and exciting song craft.
Travels well with: Jeff Coffin- Look For Water; Oz Noy/Ugonna Okegwo/Ray Marchica- Riverside