In Focus
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The jazz wizard Jason Arkins delivers 5 tracks of creative, fusion ideas here, where Beau Cornelius, Leo Folsom, Mike Ramos and Jack Dratch are all in attendance.
The dense buzzing of “Mister Behaving” opens the listen with Ramos’ playful bass and Folsom’s thick synth that complement Arkins’ lively sax prowess, and “The Higher Road” follows with Dratch’s crisp drums alongside the animated brass bouts.
Halfway through, “Cut Scene” offers a warm intimacy via the soulful sax and agile bass lines, while “In Focus” is strong on mood thanks to the elegant brass and Cornelius’ meticulous piano playing. “A Squeegee Situation” then exits, and showcases the swift bass and rich sax that punctuate the grooves and funk fun.
A distinct and adventurous jazz fusion outing, Arkins and company certainly leave us wanting more.
Travels well with: Scott Emmerman- Spheres; Three Story Sandbox- Artful Dodgers