Customer Reviews

Veneration

5 star:		(3)
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This disc is highly recommended. Wayne Escoffery is an extemely talented performer, one that manages to both sound fresh while harkening back to greats of the past. The best comparison would be to a younger Kenny Garrett. Like Kenny, Wayne has played and learned from some of the best (Tom Harrell, Jackie McLean, Ben Riley, Mingus Big Band). Those influences, and the respect that he has for them, shines through in his playing, yet he manages to also be uniquely himself. He also brought to my mind Joe Henderson in that he is able to seamlessly play well with others and then step out and shine in a thought-provoking solo. The selection of songs is also outstanding, although I haven't yet fully appreciated the last song "Melody for Melonae" yet. I particularly liked the Booker Little songs, and "Tell Me Why", the long Escoffery original song. You should also consider picking up the new Tom Harrell disc, "Light On", on which Wayne makes an extraordinary contribution to an extraordinary disc. Once you buy one, you will want the other.

Wonderfully refreshing music in the tradition of the jazz greats. My personal favorite is the Freddie Hubbard tune Sky Dive. Wayne at times exhibits sparks of genius. Definitely a classic that I will enjoy for a millennia

Wayne Escoffery's new CD brings out his superb technique and soulful palying in this "live" performance at Smoke. Joe Locke is a welcome addition.