| Jazz |
Some might say that jazz leads to everything; others, like me, might believe that jazz is the art of an epicurean soul. So be it! In that case, let us not be surprised that this album is dedicated to craft breweries. I imagine my friend, French jazz accordionist Maxime Perrin, would have no objections. Each track corresponds to a craft beer that inspired a musical counterpart. Jon C. Gardner expresses his gratitude to all the musicians who contributed to this album: *”Every evening we spent playing together made these experiences all the more unforgettable.”* He continues: *”A huge thank you as well to all the partners and companions who supported us throughout this adventure. Thanks to the two venues, Chris’ Jazz Café and Jenkintown MS/HS, for being such excellent hosts. To MoMamma Media and Travis Hill, your recording expertise truly captured the essence of each performance; thank you so much.”*
What the story does not reveal is whether the musicians sampled each craft beer corresponding to the tracks before playing. One thing is certain, however: we are in the presence of an exceptional ensemble, masters of their craft, with dazzling brass and arrangements worthy of a Hollywood film score. This stellar lineup of extraordinary musicians is sure to intoxicate you and elevate you to the firmament of the night:
- Jon C. Gardner – Alto Saxophone
- Jacob Kaplan – Alto Saxophone
- Jud Aaron – Tenor Saxophone
- Jordan Graef – Tenor Saxophone
- Louis Kugelman – Baritone Saxophone
- Daniel Wright – Trumpet
- Derek Dillman – Trumpet
- Andrew Esch – Trumpet (tracks 1, 2, 3, 9)
- Michael Cruse – Trumpet (tracks 1, 2, 3, 9)
- Jimmy Boyle – Trumpet (tracks 4-8)
- Marcell A. Bellinger – Trumpet (tracks 4-8)
- Travis Hill – Trombone
- Seth Dowdell – Trombone
- Rachel Slifer – Trombone
- Brett Slifer – Bass Trombone
- Dan Hanrahan – Guitar
- Jack Ozment – Piano
- Isaac Strader – Bass
- Sean J. Kennedy – Drums
For Jon C. Gardner, every beer seems like an adventure around the corner, opening into parallel worlds. His inspiration echoes the imaginative realms of François Schuiten and Benoît Peeters, creators of the magnificent contemporary Belgian graphic novels such as The Walls of Samaris and *Brüsel*. These stories, rich with clandestine bars and restaurants, each boasting a kaleidoscopic universe, mirror the sense of whimsical exploration evoked by this album.
Art knows no bounds in its quest for inspiration. Here, the sources are clear and dictated by the artist. In many cases, however, we must surrender to what we feel when listening to an album. The way jazz touches us is akin to the way a painting can seduce us. There is something intangible—at times even inexplicable—about what we feel. What is certain, though, is that this album stands among the most joyful offerings of 2024, marked by a particularly intriguing production. Once again, it cannot be overstated: the decision to rely on acoustic instruments ensures that this album will age gracefully, securing its place as one of our “Essential Albums” of 2024.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, November 20th 2024
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