Customer Reviews

Freedom in the Groove

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I've recently read a couple critics who actually use terms such as "rather disappointing" and "bland" in reference to this CD. I have to wonder exactly what these critics are listening for as they reach these conclusions; to me, Redman, backed up by an absolutely phenomenal rhythm section, offers forth an intense display of energy and musicianship. I don't see how it is possible that somebody could listen to this CD with open ears and not notice how incredibly exciting the music is. Anybody who can't hear raw creativity and energy on "Freedom in the Groove" is thinking too much, in my humble opinion. I don't remember if it was Pops, Miles, or Duke that said, "If it sounds good, it is good." But this music is very, very good.

It should be noted that the rhythm section is rock solid throughout, and the entire quintet really meshes nicely during solos and so forth. Certainly, some of Redman's later music is brilliant as well. But this album shouldn't be overlooked in the least.

Since he burst onto the jazz scene in the early 90's, Joshua Redman has constantly redefined the role of the jazz musician. Without abandoning his jazz roots he has found innumerable ways to advance the art of music. His musical sensibilities allow him to demonstrate tremendous musicality while at the same time making everything he plays popularly accessible.

This album was the point at which his stunning synthesis of genres really came into its own. Redman always records with only the finest musicians, and this album demonstrates it clearly with all four of the supporting cast truly understanding Redman's music and his mission. Brian Blade is the best drummer out there as far as I'm concerned (check out his CD "Perceptual" w/ the Brian Blade Fellowship). Peter Bernstien works the guitar, Peter Martin on piano, and Christopher Thomas handles the bass. All three of these guys are probably in the top 10 of young musicians on their respective instruments.

The entire album is great, and it's quite easy to play straight through, but I have a few favorite tunes. "Cat Battles" is awesome; great melody, great changes and great soloing by everybody. The first track, "Hide and Seek", is just cool, if only for Redman's incredible intro. I have some friends who live by "When the Sun Comes Down", and I sure can't argue with the fact that its a beautiful song.

This and his next two releases "Timeless Tales" and "Beyond" might very well be the future of jazz, and I wouldn't be at all disappointed if they were.

This is by far my favorite Joshua Redman recording, along with his playing on Chick Corea's Tribute to Bud Powell (1997). Some of his older recordings were too flashy for me, and the Times Changing session too "academic." On this session, however, Redman finds the perfect blend of unity and variety. The grooves are inspiring, and the melodies are bluesy yet very unique. Harmonically adventurous, yet soulful and spirited. I would even venture so far as to call this session the Blue Trane of the 90's.

This CD has gotten some bad press from different sources, and I really have to disagree. Some people say it is too much like "Light Jazz" but believe me, it's not, you will not see any sings of Kenny G. on this album. Redman experiments with Alto and Soprano, along with his normal tenor playing. I think it's a great step for him because he is on the verge on finding his own sound. I think the jazz critics are just a little bit upset because he has turned away from being a "standard" player and is becoming Contemporary, and making a name for himself. He is very young, and one of the jazz legends of the future. If you are interested in Redman, you should also get his live album at the Village Vanguard.

This disc has some great moments on it, especially 'One Shining Soul' 'Cat Battles' and 'Pantomime'. All are standouts. Josh sounds really good-full, moving all over the scale with blistering arpeggios and soft, smooth glissandos. An aire of commercialism hangs over this disc-not that that is bad or good-it just is. The songs are generally taught throughout, though a few tracks seems to lose focus occasionally. The interplay between Redman and his band is quite tight, yet they swing nicely.

Recommended.

I really like this album. I listened to it about 10 days ago here on amazon and thought i'd buy it and i'm pleased I did. I thought it had something and it does! I just can't stop humming one of the tunes. Don't get me wrong Joshs' style isn't entirely unique but he does have his own way of playing, I can often hear influences of Courtney Pine and believe it or not Maceo Parker in the tunes. Many artists tend to stand in convention like they can't possibly move from it but this guy blends his views and aspects of jazz together nicely to create a smooth but tasty dish.

I love this CD, Joshua Redman sends a sound through my speakers that I want to copy. But the only track I absolutely love is #1. Plus on this CD, his music is a little more commercial and a little less in the heart and soul of jazz

I figured I'd write a review that is current since this album is getting old enough to approach almost "classic status". Anyhow this album in my humble opinion is a modern groove masterpiece. This was alittle before fusing jazz with modern groove & hip hop had become the thing that it is today. Today its like a institution a branch off the jazz tree if you will which I think is great cause it shows the music evolving and absorbing the times. The thing I love the most about this record is that Joshua retains his acoustic jazz sound by not adding fender rhodes or a DJ,not that that would have been bad or anything but I always like to see an artist fuse the traditional acoustic sound with the modern funk, soul & hip hop feels. Also you won't find any electric bass on this album either all upright. Now my favorite tune on here & I know I'm not alone here is the lead off track Hide & Seek. Like another fellow reviewer stated this track alone is worth the price of the entire album very true. This tune has got one of the coolest saxophone intros ever written. The groove & melody are infectious you'll return to track 1 over & over. I also really like track 2 and 3. Track 3 is more in the straight up jazz vain. All the tunes share a common bond with blues & a certain gospel vibe, especially in redman's solos he invokes the expressiveness of a sanctified soul singer. During the entire album Redman & his great band which consists of Brian Blade on drums,Peter Bernstein-guitar,Peter Martin-Piano & Chris Thomas on bass. These guys offer awesome support and turn in great solos of their own especially the killer Peter Bernstein. I love that he keeps the guitar sounds in the hollow body jazz realm. Also worthy of note is the way the guitar shadows the sax melodies and does it so well that it sounds like one instrument. In conclusion you can't go wrong with this record especially if your into soul or R&B. I recommend it highly to all!

With each recording Josh gets better and better.I love this music, just enriching and artistic.Buy this c.d. and listen to "one shining soul" that's what great music should be about.Intelligence and that soul stirring groove.

Saw this cat perform at NJPAC in Newark, NJ and thought-"he's the real deal!" This is the first of his albums i have purchased and it was one of the best investments i've made since "Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers". You can hear his youth in the music; and i don't mean that in a negative way. There is an energy there that is inescapable and new. This guy isn't just playing standards, he's playing soul. it's deep.