Standards Deluxe
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The saxophonist Rob Dixon and pianist Steve Allee come together with some excellent players on hand for 6 standards sung by Amanda King and 5 originals, plus an Ellington piece for Derrick Gardner’s trumpet.
The calm and mesmerizing “Caravan” opens the listen with Allee’s warm keys suiting King’s expressive and smooth voice, and “Love For Sale” follows with Greg Artry’s swift drums complementing Dixon’s soaring sax for the romantic mood.
Deeper into the first half, the mature keys of “Sway” leads into culture rhythm that makes great use of Nick Tucker’s glowing bass, while “One Hundred” starts Gardner’s half with rich brass thanks to Dixon and Gardner’s skills.
Further yet, the busy and stylish delivery of “If We Must Die” spotlights Kenny Phelps’ drumming acrobatics amid the soulful horns, and “Caravan” exits with Allee’s adventurous keys amid the frisky rhythm section and charming sax and trumpet.
A collection of straight ahead jazz selections, Dixon’s originals are quite exciting, and the standards sound great in this swinging, modern jazz setting.
Travels well with: Rob Susman- Top Secret Lab; Andy Pratt- Trio