A big bonus—Listening to top grade jazz can be lucrative…
Charlie Porter – Cipher – PHP Records #PHP006 – 56:11 – CD – 2025 – ****
(Charlie Porter – trumpet; Nick Biello – alto & soprano sax; George Colligan – piano; Garrett Baxter – bass; Alan Jones – drums)
Who knew that solving hidden ciphers (nine secret messages hidden in “codes” found in eight progressive jazz tracks) could be both musically and financially rewarding? How about making a cool $10,000 guaranteed if you can determine the location of an object found in the United States (no need for trespassing)? A map can be determined by solving the clues found in the music. And the “wheel” in the CD jacket will help in the journey…
That’s the puzzle-and the journey begins with the enjoyment of trumpeter, Charlie Porter’s new CD, Cipher, just released on PHP Records. Backed by a Portland, Oregon based quartet, (names noted above), Charlie, now re-located to the East coast, presents a love for codes, that in combination with his warm, burnished trumpet tone, makes the trip rewarding in many ways.
Porter composed all the tracks, recorded in Portland, in 2002, and mixed and mastered by Mike Marciano, in Long Island.
You’ll find the music as challenging and rewarding as the generous prize. Though, I am not an esteemed puzzle solver, and won’t be $10,000 richer, the soundscape, and the interaction between band members is a just reward. Charlie provides “space” for group modal play, and Nick Biello’s sax is especially given equal footing.
Beginning with the fanfare of the opener, “Departure,” there is a mysteriousness, combined with a distinctive swing feel, that deeply hooks an inquisitive listener, well needed for the hunt to come. “13 Miles,” has Garrett Baxter’s bass, and George Colligan’s piano lines in a seductive mood, which could be well placed in a detective noir setting, when Biello’s sax kicks in.
“En Route” puts Porter’s trumpet prowess on full display, backed by Alan Jones’ snappy drums. “Namesake” is intriguing, with more woody bass from Baxter, and the horns bring a forbidding feel that makes you sit up straight in anticipation for what’s lurking in the night. That continues with “But Not Forgotten,” but the touch is just a bit lighter.
Time for some beauty, and that is provided by “Eden,” a gorgeous ballad, and Nick’s soprano sax is sublime. Alan Jones’ assertive drum solo opens the closer, “Two is One.” Charlie’s swagger on his horn leads the way, backed again by Biello, giving jazz lovers the opportunity to complete their search for gold.
Charlie Porter presents a win-win proposition on this unique project. Whether you love deciphering clues, or just enjoy a top flight jazz quintet, it’s a fun ride. Good luck to all. I’m just happy with the music…
Tracklist:
Departure, 13 Miles,
En Route,
Namesake,
But Not Forgotten, Eden,
Are You Sure?,
Two in One
—Jeff Krow
