What Does It Mean To Be Free?
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
Listen to What Does It Mean To Be Free?
The drummer-composer Anthony Fung returns with a 3rd album, where 8 originals and 1 Wayne Shorter tune are fleshed out with David Binney (alto sax), Luca Mendoza (piano), Luca Alemanno (bass) and several guests.
The title track starts the listen with Alemanno’s bass and Mendoza’s piano complementing Fung’s drumming acrobatics as Binney’s soulful and unpredictable sax makes an impression, and “El Paso” follows with a much calmer pace that benefits from the keys, brass and drums aligning for an intimate spirit.
In the middle, “Flashpoint (Revisited)” is full of rich, modern jazz textures that are delivered flawlessly, while “Sonny’s Blues” showcases the intricate guitar of Marcel Camargo in the cautious landscape.
Making our way towards the end, “Let Us Not Forget To Be Kind” recruits Roni Eytan on harmonica for the reflective, moody album highlight, and “Sightseeing” exits the listen upbeat, dynamic and with firm drumming amid the precise layering.
Fung has a lengthy resume that includes being under the mentorship of Herbie Hancock and Danilo Perez, and his time at prestigious schools and worldly approach help make this body of work an exciting display of contemporary jazz greatness.
Travels well with: Calvin Johnson Jr.- Notes Of A Native Son; The Adam Larson Trio- With Love, From Chicago