The album will cause few ripples on the surface of the jazz pond.
Stunt Records 24042
Carlton Holmes (piano, synthesizer); Danton Boller (bass); Alvin Queen (drums)
Recorded 26-28 September 2023 at Tedesco Studio, Paramus, New Jersey
Out Of This World / It Ain’t Necessarily So / Waltz For Jamal / Bleecker Street Theme / Love Will Find A Way / The Night Has A Thousand Eyes / Spartacus Love Theme / Feelin’ Good / Firm Roots / Send In The Clowns / Falling In Love With You / Someone To Watch Over Me / Three Little Words
Many years ago, I was told that if you cannot think of anything nice to say, then say nothing. Well, I can say nice things.
Alvin Queen has had a rich and varied experience of jazz. He left the US and moved to Geneva where he has worked with Ray Brown, Harry Edison, Guy Lafitte, Oscar Peterson and Kenny Drew. He has said that he prefers to work with relative unknowns so that egos do not get in the way of creativity. Carlton Holmes is an experienced musician who has played with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Branford Marsalis and Diane Reeves. Danton Boller worked with Roy Hargrove and Robert Glasper.
The thirteen tracks (the longest at just six minutes and the shortest 3.27) are indicative of restraint. The Elvin Jones’ influence on Queen can be heard on ‘The Night Has A Thousand Eyes’. The rolling cross-rhythms are restrained yet powerful.
The shuffle rhythm behind Gershwin’s ‘It Ain’t Necessarily So’ is engaging and shows Carlton Holmes at his most adventurous. The thunderous yet melodic opening to Cedar Walton’s ’Firm Roots’ is beautifully recorded and played.
Make no mistake, this a tasteful, beautifully produced album, the CD has a few more tracks than the vinyl (which has nine). The CD has glossy packaging and an insert booklet to match. Each track is identified and described. The genesis of each track is explained but the reader is not burdened with too many musical insights to aid the appreciation of the interpretation.
The album will cause few ripples on the surface of the jazz pond. This is the kind of music to play softly to accompany conversation between friends and in the pauses to enjoy the undoubted skills of the musicians.
