Jakob Dreyer

Songs, Hymns And Ballads Vol. 2

Fresh Sound, 2023

8/10

Listen to Songs, Hymns And Ballads Vol. 2

The inimitable bassist Jakob Dreyer returns for the 2nd installment of his modern jazz songs, and again he’s got Jason Rigby, Jon Cowherd and Jimmy Macbride along with him.

“Neuland” starts the listen with Rigby’s warm sax and Macbride’s agile drumming in the dynamic jazz climate, and “Ypsilon” follows with Cowherd’s graceful piano playing complementing the acrobatic bass plucking from Dreyer.

“Mandalay” and “Tamara’s Waltz” arrive in the middle, where the former moves swiftly with bright brass amid the frisky rhythm section, while the latter recruits an intimate spirit of poetic and emotive song craft.

Close to the end, the dance floor ready “Fat Cat” blend the player’s respective strengths into a rich and melodic album highlight, and “Beauchene” exits with both gentle and fuller moments of meticulous, thoughtful musicianship.

All of Dreyer’s company have had much success in other bands they’re in, and together they make for another batch of memorable, creative and timeless jazz tunes.

Travels well with: The Pat Petrillo Big Rhythm Band- The Power Station Sessions; Jakob Dreyer- Songs, Hymns And Ballads: Volume 1