An intoxicating Brandee Younger mix of spiritual themes…
Brandee Younger – Gadabout Season – Impulse Records #0078075094 – 42:44 –
CD – *****
Jazz harpist, Brandee Younger, enters an enticing, vulnerable world, where
spiritual grace meets a hopeful bright light, on her latest CD, Gadabout Season,
just released on Impulse Records. Recorded entirely in her house during a
period of self reflection, the ten tracks have a deep soul feel that sinks in, and
does not let go. Younger describes the project as a search for beauty in these
tumultuous times.
Using Alice Coltrane’s harp certainly must have helped Brandee find the
inspiration needed to enter new territory. She uses her backing rhythm section
of bassist, Rashaan Carter, and drummer, Allan Mednard. By using
distinguished guests that include Shabaka Hutchings on flute (two tracks); Joel
Ross (track #3); keyboardist, Courtney Bryan, (two tracks); and saxophonist,
Josh Johnson (on the closing track), Younger uses their talents to add to her
vision.
Hutchings’ flute brings an ethereal touch to “End Means,” as well as the title
track, as does Joel Ross’ vibes, a perfect addition for a harp. Courtney Bryan’s
piano on “Surrender,” is especially moving, and a highlight of this CD.
Younger’s use of textures and harp techniques contributes to bassist/producer,
Carter’s description as “an Afrofuturist sonic palette.” It’s a “weighty” word
mix, but all I know is that for the entire 42+ minutes it kept me entranced,
deeply moved, and provided a much needed panacea in this troubled world.
You will likely hit “repeat” on your CD player often, or easily add this CD to
your needed digital play list. Five *****, easily earned…
–Jeff Krow
Performing Artists:
Brandee Younger – harp; Rashaan Carter – bass; Allan Mednard – drums;
Guests: Makaya McCraven – drums/percussion (# 2, 3 ); Shabaka Hutchings –
flute (#2, 3 ); Joel Ross – vibraphone (#3); Ele Howell – drums (#6); Courtney
Bryan – piano, Fender Rhodes (#7, 8); Niia – vocals (#9); Josh Johnson –
saxophone (#10)
Gadabout Season
Performing Artists:
Brandee Younger – harp;
Rashaan Carter – bass;
Allan Mednard – drums;
Guests: Makaya McCraven – drums/percussion (# 2, 3 ); Shabaka Hutchings –
flute (#2, 3 ); Joel Ross – vibraphone (#3); Ele Howell – drums (#6); Courtney
Bryan – piano, Fender Rhodes (#7, 8); Niia – vocals (#9); Josh Johnson –
saxophone (#10)
Tracklist:
Reckoning
End Means
Gadabout Season
Breaking Point
Reflection Eternal
New Pinnacle
Surrender
BBL
Unswept Corners
Discernment
