ALBUM REVIEW: Wayne Shorter Quartet "Without A Net"

With its postmodern vibe and spirit of originality, the recent Blue Note Records release from the Wayne Shorter Quartet presents a delightful package of recordings from the group's 2011 European tour. Rounding out the collection titled "Without A Net:" is an impressive 23 minute collaboration with The Imani Winds, which was recorded live at The Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

 

The assemblage runs the gamut from the unexpectedly daring, to traditional with a twist, as evidenced in 'Flying Down to Rio.' The quartet boasts Wayne Shorter sax, Danilo Perez on keys, bassist John Patitucci and drummer Brian Blade, who are all well known musical vanguards in their own right and lend "Without A Net" an appropriate mix of panache, style and substance.

The Wayne Shorter Quartet already has a major hit on its hands, and the group has proven that life can be sweet when you go out on a limb without being encumbered by the proverbial "net." R. Todd Jones for JazzMusicChart.com

ALBUM REVIEW: Terri Lyne Carrington "Money Jungle: Provocative In Blue"

They say that everything old becomes new again, and the veracity of that phrase is proven once again with the release of "Money Jungle: Provocative In Blue." Grammy Award winning Terri Lyne Carrington offers a shiny, new perspective on the fifty-year-old recording of "Money Jungle," which originally featured the legendary Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus and Max Roach. 

This hard-swing interpretation of "Money Jungle" boasts prestigious soundbites from the likes of civil right leader Martin Luther King, President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton (along with wife Hillary.) In her own unique way, Terri Lyne Carrington propels the track into a relevant, yet entertaining social commentary on capitalism.

The cut "Grass Roots," is sophisticatedly syncopated and a scrumptious addition to the Concord Jazz release. Another track, "Switch Blade," masterfully highlights Carrington's expert drumming skills while still showcasing the solidity of the bassist and pianist.

Ably assisted by notables such as Clark Terry on trumpet, Robin Eubanks on trombone, Nir Felder on guitar and the versatile Herbie Hancock in the role of commentator, Terri Lyne Carrington delivers a solid, award-worthy package that is even more memorable than the well-executed "provocative" album cover. R. Todd Jones for JazzMusicChart.com

ALBUM REVIEW: Jackie Ryan with John Clayton & Friends "Listen Here"

With her husky alto voice, Jackie Ryan jumps right in and commands attention with the appropriately titled album "Listen Here. On the opening track, "Comin' Home Baby" provides strong instrumentation from John Clayton & Friends - including a lengthy bridge that maintains an improvisational, live feel.

"The Gypsy In My Soul" offers a warm and heartfelt vocal from Ryan. The track boasts an impressive sax/piano interlude with 3-time Grammy nominee Gerald Clayton on keys along with veteran tenor saxophonist Rickey Woodard. A popular Boland/Jaffe composition, Jackie Ryan's rendition of "The Gypsy In My Soul" is a carefree, joyous romp that entertains the ears and soul. The CD packaging is impressive, and the artist mentions why she included this song on her album. She writes: "When I was a little girl, every Halloween I would dress up as a 'gypsy' with dozens of bracelets, long skirts, necklaces and big hoop earrings. And I've always admired the Rom people for putting music first in their lives." Indeed, Jackie Ryan's expressive delivery on "The Gypsy In My Soul" precisely proves that point.

George and Ira Gershwin's "I Loves You Porgy" gets the subtle treatment with subdued piano, gentle percussion and stripped down production. As in the other 13 cuts, Ryan is in good voice. Soft at times and strengthening appropriately, Jackie Ryan's vocal instrument is ideally suited for this classic tune.

A surge of gospel influence infuses "Accentuate The Positive," with its sermon-tinged Johnny Mercer lyrics and Harold Arlen score. Traditional organ, sax and piano are featured by the proven Clayton & Friends. Ryan's voice is a great match to this style and a pleasure to hear. Church is in session with Ryan at the pulpit. Preach it, Jackie. Preach!

Finally, on the title track, "Listen Here," Jackie Ryan delivers a nuanced, paced vocal which complements Gerald Clayton's superb piano accompaniment. This rendition is a lovely treatment of the Dave Frishberg classic. Simplicity is the key here. With the pairing of Ryan's expressive voice and Clayton's piano, the main theme of the song is quite clear. Ryan writes in the CD booklet: "I love the message of this song. Dave has a way of writing lyrics that go deep and move you - without being heavy handed. She adds: The song itself says what I want the CD to say: Always listen to that inner voice. Follow your calling, be true to yourself and you will never go wrong."

Jackie, we're all listening, and we love what you've done.  R. Todd Jones for JazzMusicChart.com