Songs For Stuffed Animals
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Listen to Songs For Stuffed Animals
The seasoned saxophonist Richard Guba makes for an impressive debut, where 4 originals and 4 standards unfold via the octet’s strong attention to detail and texture.
“Morning Dance” leads with Guba’s bright sax alongside Ken Zimmerman’s colorful keys for the lively opener, and “The Gospel According To Lewis” follows with rich winds and James Burcky’s animated drumming.
At the halfway point, “To Wisdom The Prize” is a frisky moment where David Mueller’s electric bass suites the layered horns, while “Simply Do Not” offers a mesmerizing mood via the guitar prowess thanks to Nicholas Carico and the hypnotic keys.
The last 2 tracks, “Tributaries” and “Search For Peace”, don’t disappoint, either. The former is an intimate moment of beauty and grace, and the latter showcases Guba’s precise sax skills amid the soft melodies and Rodney Laster’s dreamy flute.
In addition to the above mentioned, Joel McCord handles trumpet and flugelhorn and Jim Tavener plays trombone. Together, with Guba’s inimitable talents, the 8 song program is an excellent first record that comes with 50 years of playing the sax, which is very much appreciated.
Travels well with: Carl Clements- A Different Light; Jake Hertzog- Longing To Meet You