| Jazz |
Residing in Illinois, Phil Brown is both a double bassist, composer, and teacher, and it is likely his Texan roots that inspired this album with its Latino flavors.
Both entertaining and highly academic in concept, this album is enriched by the presence of Fareed Haque, an excellent guitarist who is himself deeply rooted in academic rigor. He reminds us that this style of music has, for decades, been thoroughly modernized by towering figures like Juan Carmona. Thus, one should expect no surprises here—only an album of impeccable craftsmanship.
To truly appreciate this work, one must listen with a different perspective, focusing on its essence. Following the jazz tradition, which often thrives more on oral transmission than written conventions, we must seek out the fundamental drive behind this series of compositions. This artistic approach becomes all the more understandable when considering Brown’s biography; an unblemished trajectory that has led him through various orchestras over the years. He has performed, for instance, with the Herbert Zipper Orchestra in North Shore Chicago schools, as well as with the Handel Society, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, and a touring Lithuanian orchestra from Canada. He was also a finalist for a double bass position with the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
At every level of composition and arrangement, we witness a fusion of genres where jazz, classical music, and Latin influences blend into a compelling cocktail—though without ever truly surprising us. This is a form of jazz everyone recognizes, adhering meticulously to its established codes. And while these compositions are entirely new, the album ultimately leaves a lingering sense of déjà vu, one that proves difficult to shake.
Yet if this album succeeds in evoking a sense of joy, it is thanks to the collective brilliance of its musicians, whose rhythmic mastery is undeniable. The track Magnolia stands as a prime example—an exquisitely poetic moment that highlights the full talent of pianist Tom Edgar and bassist Phil Brown. Undoubtedly, there is a remarkable craftsmanship at play here, one that speaks to an audience firmly rooted in the most traditional currents of jazz.
Musicians: Fareed Haque (guitar); Bradley Williams (piano); Phil Brown (bass); Tom Hipskind (drums/percussion) Dick Kelley & Reeds Bob Allison (trumpet/Flugelhorn); Isaac Lausell (guitar); Jimmy Beers (drums); Tom Edgar (piano); Mel Goot (voice); Michael Wallace (percussions).
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent for Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief – Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
Editor for All About Jazz
PARIS-MOVE, April 1st 2025
Follow PARIS-MOVE on X
::::::::::::::::::::::