7th Ave South
ArtistShare, 2024
8/10
The esteemed saxophonist and composer Jon Gordon takes a trip back to the ‘80s and Greenwich Village, where plenty of guests accompany him for the 10 adventurous jazz tracks.
“Witness” starts the listen with harmonizing voices from Joanna Majoko and Erin Propp, where Will Bonness lends his elegant piano skills, and the title track follows with Fabio Rangnelli’s proficient drumming that suits Alan Ferber’s well timed trombone.
“Here, There” arrives in the middle, and showcases gorgeous singing amid Walter Smith III’s soulful sax, while “Visit” allows for charming vocal scatting alongside intimate brass, soft keys and light drumming.
Close to the end, “Spark”, the best track, showcases Julian Bradford’s skilled bass and John Ellis’ meticulous bass clarinet for the textured and melodic spirit, and the reprise version of the title track exits with sax acrobatics, playful drums and soaring, wordless vocals.
Gordon was present during the this time period, and he captures the exciting jazz sensibilities of that era with an exciting cast that creates timeless jazz that will always be relevant.
Travels well with: Omar Thomas Large Ensemble- Griot Songs; Trio San- Hibiki