Conceptions
Cellar, 2025
8/10
The pianist Geoffrey Dean delivers an album of all originals, where Harish Raghavan, Eric Binder and Justin Copeland accompany him for the 10 timeless jazz tracks.
The soft spirit of “Came And Went” opens with Dean’s lovely keys and Copeland’s eloquent trumpet making for much warmth, and “Phoenix Rising” follows with the frisky drums from Binder that complement Raghavan’s lively bass and the bright brass.
The middle spot belongs to the intimate mood of “Road To Somewhere”, while “Song For Hannah” allow for Dean’s melodic piano to mesh with the agile bass in a dreamy climate that is the album’s best.
Deeper still, the animated “Prism” showcases Binder’s acrobatic drumming with more emphasis on soaring trumpet, and “What May Come” exits with a hypnotic mood via the mesmerizing keys, soulful horn and heartfelt rhythm section.
A highly memorable effort of modern jazz sensibilities, Dean and company emit harmonies, rhythms, and a charming meshing of swing, straight-eighth and odd meter compositions for this exceptional 2nd record.
Travels well with: Rodney Whitaker- Mosaic; Randy Hoexter- Tomorrowsville