Oh, the joys of being a jazz fan in New York City…
Steve Wilson – Enduring Sonance – Smoke Sessions Records #SSR-2601 – CD – 43:31 – ****1/2
(Steve Wilson – alto and soprano sax, flute; Joe Locke – vibraphone; Renee Rosnes – piano & Fender Rhodes; Jay Anderson – bass; Kendrick Scott – drums; Kevin Newton – french horn on “Quiet Girl” and “Francisco”)
Only in the boroughs of New York City ( mostly Manhattan) can a jazz fan have their choice of seeing live, jazz super stars on a nightly basis. The reason is simple. That’s where the premier jazz artists live. It is easy to record there, and there are many universities nearby to teach students.
When these musicians tour, they are likely to be backed by local musicians, most quite capable, but likely not able to properly rehearse with traveling artists. Often times, the song list has to be standards that are well known, and easy to follow.
Steve Wilson, the veteran saxophonist, has the benefit of having an all-star backing band for his latest release on Smoke Sessions Records, Enduring Sonance. Each of the members of his quintet could easily be a headliner when they travel. But being able to record in New York City, and residing nearby, they form a dream quintet, Jazz aficionados will recognize their names, and know their abilities. Their recordings, whether as leaders, or backing musicians, would fill more than several pages.
Wilson’s latest release, his tenth as a leader, is primarily a ballad project, featuring his warm, inviting tone on soprano, alto, and flute. The addition of vibraphonist, Joe Locke, expands the musical palette, well beyond a sax plus rhythm section date. On Quincy Jones’ “The Eyes of Love,” Locke’s vibes makes the tune pop with energy.
In addition to her formidable skills on piano, Renee Rosnes, handles all the arrangements, and she shines on Billy Childs’ “Quiet Girl,” which opens the CD, and she helps honor George Cables’ lovely, “Helen’s Song,” written for Cables’ soulmate. Drummer, Kendrick Scott, is featured on “Pieces of Dreams,” while bassist, Jay Anderson, as steady as they come (he is the bassist in Maria Schneider’s magnificent jazz orchestra) adds his touch on “The Surest Things Can Change.”
Steve gets to weave his magic on soprano sax on Eliane Elias’ “A Volta,” and on alto sax on “How Long?” which also features Jay Anderson. The closing track, “Francisco,” features guest, Kevin Newton, on french horn, his warm tone fitting in nicely, in a mellow fashion.
I was privileged to attend the CD release party for this marvelous CD, while visiting Manhattan recently. It was a highlight of my trip. The magic of hearing this marvelous quintet can be shared on this well recorded disc. If you can’t hear this group live, this is the next best thing!
—Review by Jeff Krow
Steve Wilson – Sonance
Tracklist:
Quiet Girl
Helen’s Song
Pieces of Dreams
How Long?
A Volta
The Eyes of Love
The Surest Things Can Change
Francisco
