1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great trumpet playing & great song writing, May 3, 2008
This review is from: This Against That (Audio CD)
This Against That is yet another great performance by trumpeter Ralph Alessi. Alessi uses his beautiful airy tone and impressive chops as he solos over syncopated repetitive riffs. The song writing is reminiscent of song writing by McCoy circa 1970. Like Tyner's Cosmos and Sama Layuca, many of Alessi's songs (e.g. Soy Ink & Expectations) feature a catchy 6 or 7 note riff that repeats throughout the song. These hooks give the songs instant appeal. Depth, and lasting appeal are added to these "catchy hooks" by an impressive list of soloists: clarinetist Don Byron, guitarist David Gilmour, pianist Jason Moran, drummer Nasheet Waits, and bassist Drew Gress. The only knock against the album is the 4 part "I'm a cowboy on the boat of Ra". This 4 part saga features spoken poetry by Julie Patton. This poetry feels out of place in the album. In my opinion poetry mixed with jazz always comes of as a bit cheesy. Other than that, this is fantastic album and is highly recommended. Any fan of the trumpet who has not yet heard Ralph Alessi, must pick up one of Alessi's album and see what's happening with trumpet in the 21st century.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
