recording distinctive jazz for the listener and for the art itself MXJ 601 | ||
PLAYGROUND When I was asked to write some comments about this recording, I was a little apprehensive in the beginning. After all, shouldn't the music speak for itself? But after some consideration, I realized that certain things needed to be addressed. First of all, this is the first time I've produced my own recording (or at least gotten credit for it). Second, it's such a beautiful experience to go into the studio with a group of musicians that I've been playing with on the road EJ, Strickland, Martin Bejerano and Tassili Bond are three of the finest young musicians working today. These gentlemen have great respect for the history of this music. This is a must for anyone who plays in my band. At the same time, they're not afraid to come to their own conclusions as to how the music can be approached. This is also a must for anyone who plays in my band. I'm also very happy to have Gary Bartz and Joe Locke on this recording. Their presence in any musical situation is always inspiring. Most of the songs are originals that I've been sitting on for a while. There are also a couple of songs that I heard as a child growing up in Georgia, as well as two obscure gems by Jerome Kern and Billy Strayhorn. The music on this recording may not be considered 'ground breaking.' Maybe it doesn't even 'push the envelope' or 'break from tradition.' But I honestly meant every note of it. Enjoy. - Russell Ate/one
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