DB & The Soho Nine-Six
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Listen to DB & The Soho Nine-Six
The bassist and composer David Barber makes for an impressive debut here, where a large cast of players accompany him for these fusion filled 9 tracks that are as unpredictable as they are creative.
The lively “Flea Circus” opens the listen with Kevin Winard’s skilled drums and Justin Claveria’s animated sax complementing Barber’s flowing bass, and “Frickafumyum” follows with thick bass lines and Daniel Zimmerman’s meticulous guitar licks.
In the middle, “Captain Hook” showcases Charles Maynes’s log drum techniques and Jim Mooy’s glowing trumpet in both busy and calm gestures, while “Panther In The Plaza” pays close attention to mood via the bouncy bass, Chris Barron’s fluid piano prowess and exciting percussion.
Close to the end, “Neighbor (Won’t You Be Mine)” welcomes Jamey Scott on lead guitar, which suits the melodic nature of the rhythm section, and “Second Beach- A Meditation” exits with Peter Albrechtsen’s atmospheric manipulation guiding the intimate and sensitive closer.
A first effort that embraces, funk, ambience and no lack of grooves in its jazz fusion vision, Barber and company illuminate festive and pretty sounds across this enlightening experience.
Travels well with: Peter Jonatan And The Metropole Orkest- Psalms Symphony; Jim Ellis Quartet- Bizet: Carmen In Jazz