Alex Garnett, Tim Armacost (ten); Liam Noble (pno); Michael Janisch (bs); James Maddren (dms).(Review by Lance).
The two tenor front
line has long been a classic combo format - Think Sonny Stiit/Gene Ammons; Teddy Edwards/Dexter Gordon; Gordon/Wardell Gray; Zoot Sims/Al Cohn; Lockjaw
Davis/Johnny Griffin and, of course, the Jazz Couriers in the form of Ronnie
Scott and Tubby Hayes. This latest combination is a logical continuation of the
Couriers and hints at where they might have been at had Scott and Hayes lived and
re-formed. However, comparisons are odious or, in this case, melodious, and
this quintet can stand up and be counted alongside any of their predecessors.
In a sneak preview last
month I suggested that if the CD had been released in 2014 it would be in with
a shout for CD of the Year! That still holds true for 2015 even though 'tis but
early days!
Until now, I'd been unaware of
Armacost. Raised in Tokyo , he'd since lived in Washington , Amsterdam ,
India , New
York and now London Newcastle
They certainly Gel with
a capital G on Delusions of
Grandma! What a title! All the tracks are either composed or arranged by Garnett whose tenor playing is as outstanding here as it was on his previous disc, The Serpent.
Early Autumn reflects Garnett's major influence - Stan Getz
- a two tenor dialogue on "The Sound". So refreshing at a time when
musicians like Getz are overlooked by so many of the "Class of 2015".
Her Tears, based on an argument between two lovers who are growing apart. I'm not quite sure if I can relate the music to the title but, even if it was called, Composition number 7/33a, I'd love it! The horns blend and, at least to my ears aren't argumentative!
Holmes - Party going on at 221b Baker St!
I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm - this is pure Jazz Couriers, maybe even better!
If this isn't on my short list cum December 31, 2015 I'll be very surprised
Cheers!
Lance.
PS: It goes without saying (for which I apologise for going without saying) that Noble, Janisch and Maddren are probably the only rhythm section in town (that day!) who could feed the horns with so much inspiration!
PS: It goes without saying (for which I apologise for going without saying) that Noble, Janisch and Maddren are probably the only rhythm section in town (that day!) who could feed the horns with so much inspiration!
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