Customer Reviews

Time's Mirror

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

 

 

I am a guitarist/composer and an unabashed Harrell admirer since I first heard him in the late '70's on the New York scene. He was an in-demand sideman then, little-known to fans, but already he had won over the musicians. His trumpet playing scared us then, and he already had an mature and attractive body of compositions in the books of various bands he was in. And his artistry has only grown exponentially ever since. This recording's merits (to-the-point solos, well-planned, thorough-composed and emotionally charged charts, and a suite-like continuity) stand on their own. However, they take on added meaning when considered as the fruition of all those years experience coupled with constant thought about music and searching for a voice by the artist (some of these pieces are 30 years old, some written in 1999).

Standouts include "Daily News" (which uses metric shifting, compelling backgrounds and an exciting, ever-moving compositional landscape to create a steely brilliance offset by the warmth of Tom's flugelhorn), Sao Paulo (a zephyr-like bossa which slowly unfolds to wrap up with a glorious out-chorus), and the title track (if you aren't moved by this ballad performance, put in a call to the coroner).

This CD should only win Harrell more admirers, despite a craven 3 star review in Downbeat (seemingly because the reviewer couldn't handle the fact that Harrell's fame has finally grown beyond initiates). Tom Harrell's music does what art is supposed to when done right: bring beauty into the world and uplift the race. And he does it on this recording with more clarity and emotional commitment than ever before.

Whithout doubts, the trumpet of the new millenium, now with a big band. Un- Loosing! ( sorry about my english! )

This is a beatifully arranged and performed recording, but the music is lacking the striking originality and sense of adventure that one finds in other Tom Harrell performances. In fact, some of it is just plain dull and corny. If you really want to hear what Mr. Harrell can do, I recommend Labyrinth or The Art of Rhythm or his wonderful collaboration with Joe Lovano on Live at the Village Vanguard.

This is a departure from Tom Harrell's regular style. I'm a jazz trumpet player and I have been a lukewarm Harrell fan until now. This one is worth a try.

Not destined to be a classic, but a great example of Tom Harrell's writing and arranging skills for big band. Reminds me a lot of Thad Jones-Mel Lewis type of charts they would play. I find the whole album very refreshing and enjoyable. A lot of orchestral colors and writing concepts employed.

In an interview not too long ago with Freddie Hubbard on a jazz radio station in Long Beach, Freddie remarked that he doesn't listen to much of the young lion's work these days but that he thinks Tom Harrell's band is the best he's listened to "and He's White". Don't know what to think of Hub's statement but one thing is sure after listening to this album: Tom Harrell is happen'ng!! His writing and arranging outside of his playing is excellent throughout and even the old standard "Dream" is given a great arrangement. Also outside of Tom's great playing, other musicians shine as well such as Alex Blake and Don Braeden on tenors, and Xavier Davis on piano. Like Freddie, if I ever go to New York City, I'll definitely see this great band!!!

This album is a delight. The songs are full of life and great spirit, and the writing is very ambitious without being contrived. If someone who did not have any Harrell recordings asked me what to get, this might top the list.