Tiger Tail
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The exceptional tenor and soprano saxophonist Even Drybread brings along an impressive cast of players for these 8 timeless jazz originals that take influence from legends like Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter and John Coltrane.
“Blackball” opens the listen with the brass meshing in flowing, playful and melodic ways, as Kenny Phelps handles the precise drumming on the timeless jazz delivery, and “High Priestess” follows with Scott Pazera’s skilled bass complementing the swift horns and acobatic drumming.
The title track occupies the middle spot and emits much influence from Coltrane in the ‘60s and showcases a 6/4 tenor melody that you can’t not admire, while “Atlantic Mirror” benefits much from Christopher Pitts’ intimate piano and Drybread’s stirring sax prowess in the very poetic landscape.
“Woodruff Place Town Hall” and “Waltse” exit the listen, where the former highlights Mark Buselli’s dynamic brass skill, and the latter finishes with the 2nd Pitts’ composition that’s full of stirring and reflective song craft.
From hard bop to fusion to moments of serenity, Drybread and company flesh out songs that will appeal to fans of jazz from any and all eras.
Travels well with: Chris Torkewitz- NY Ensembles; Gerry Eastman Trio- Trust Me