Urbanessence
Origin, 2022
9/10
The seasoned trumpeter and composer Tito Carrillo returns with a sophomore album, where he explores the distinct energy of city life along with Troy Roberts (sax), Ben Lewis (piano), Clark Sommers (bass), Jay Sawyer (drums) and Victor Gonzalez (congas).
“Momentum” starts the listen with a lively energy, where bright brass and frisky drumming help make for a very flowing climate, and “Fire & Ice” follows with a calmer pace of warm keys and playful congas.
In the middle, “Crazy, Stupid Fine” spends 9 minutes mesmerizing us with its rich layers of soulful sax, firm drums and skilled bass lines, while “Up The Down Staircase” moves with a stirring intimacy that is quite emotive in its cautious demeanor.
Approaching the end, “Fly By Night”, the best track, is a more upbeat affair, where the stylish rhythm section and very quick trumpet is fascinating, and “Sublime (For Roy Hargrove)” exits with an indeed sublime delivery of reserved and rich musicianship.
Carrillo and company make the most of these 10 originals, and it’s a superb listen that explores the black music traditions of the 3 Americas with incredible agility and talent.
Travels well with: Eric Jacobson- Discover; Bruce Barth Trio- Dedication