Customer Reviews

Out of the Circle

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

 

 

I don't understand the vehemently negative reaction of the other reviewer. This is a solid and enjoyable album, that mixes some of Dave Holland's time-signature acrobatics with a generally mellower, warmer sound. The vocals are average - far from awful - and while the lyrics _are_ awful, they fit into the 70's vibe that much of the album has. I personally find Dave Holland's later albums technically impressive but a little cool and mechanical. This record is more laid back, and if you can't stand the sound of 70's "cross-over" jazz (NOTHING like lite jazz or dog help us smooth jazz), it's not for you. But it's a fine record on its own merits.

The liner notes to "Out Of The Circle" say that this CD is special because Alex Sipiagin was able to spend more time (and money) recording it. It simply isn't a 'set up the mics and press record' type of jazz CD. Most of the other musicians are familiar -- Donny McCaslin, Robin Eubanks, Antonio Sanchez, Scott Colley, Gil Goldstein, Adam Rogers, Daniel Sadownick, Henry Hey (keys), and Monday Michiru (vocals & programming). Sipiagin wrote most of the songs, though the two vocal songs were written by or with Monday Michiru. The songs are well-done mainstream jazz, and the playing is excellent throughout. The songs have a few twists and turns, though the song forms don't get too complicated. The production is a help and hindrance - since the edges are sanded down it might have some more appeal, but it also keeps it out of the top echelon of 2009 jazz CD's. I like Michiru's vocal songs since she sings the jazzy songs straightforwardly without overdoing the stereotypical jazz inflections. Even though Sipiagin's trumpet style isn't individualistic enough for me to recognize in a crowd, he is a very good trumpet player, and given the time (and money) he made "Out Of The Circle" a very good CD.

Great record! Alex Sipiagin - where has he been hiding (Russia, I guess)? Mulgrew Miller at his best, as well.

Dave Holland's best CD in years.