Customer Reviews

Democracy

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Superb new live recording by the iconoclastic pianist Kenny Werner, this time fronting a group featuring David Sanchez on tenor, and two trumpet players (including Kenny Wheeler) used primarily for ensemble theme statements. Werner's compositions are wonderful--great themes, range of moods and colors. His piano playing is typically cliche-free and always interesting. Sanchez is excellent, with his Coltrane influenced sound. Werner's tribute to Joni Mitchell is the highlight for me--a beautiful composition somewhat reminiscent of the Jarrett/Garbarek work on the classic "Belonging" album (I'm thinking of the "As Long As You're Living" cut, if memory serves me). Highest recommendation!

This album, recorded at the famous Blue Note, begins with a stunning solo piano piece 'Democracy Now'. 'One for Joni' is inspired by the music of Joni Mitchell. The tune has a folksy, bluesy feel that provides a lot of freedom for the musicians to play around. The band is fantastic. Young trumpetist Matt Shulman does a wonderful job and Kenny Wheeler (featured only in the last tune) & David Sanchez also shine. Bassist Scott Colley and drummer Brian Blade are 2 well known masters and their performance is awesome. As Toots Thielemans stated: "Kenny Werner is a total musician. He feeds my heart and my brain and pushes me into fresh territories."

As many of Kenny Werner's albums this jewel will make your foot tapping. Recommended!