| Jazz |
Jazzfuel informs us: “New York holds the reputation of being the global capital of jazz and is often looked upon with admiration and envy by musicians worldwide. The new album from Brooklyn-based guitarist/composer Roger Lin aims to encapsulate a realistic image of the city’s scene, exploring the dichotomy between talent and hard work, as well as the exploitation, pretension, and ignorance he has experienced.”
In essence, we find ourselves in a form of jazz that is truly urban, even intellectual without being inaccessible. The influences of Bach, Keith Jarrett, and Bill Frisell are evident, yet Roger Linn maintains a distinct personality that adds originality to this album. The lineup of musicians varies across tracks, with two different rhythm sections featured in a variety of ensemble choices— a solo guitar piece, a three-part suite for a guitar/ piano quartet, and a selection of pieces for a saxophone/ guitar quartet.
To pay tribute to these excellent musicians, here is the lineup:
Roger Lin | Guitar & Composition
Chaz Martineau | Saxophone
Moshe Elmakias | Piano
Isaac Levien | Bass (Track 2, 3, 5, 7, 9)
Simón Willson | Bass (Track 1, 4, 6)
Quinton Cain | Drums (Track 2, 3, 5, 7, 9)
Willis Edmundson | Drums (Track 1, 4, 6)
It’s important to note, because honestly there is a rare delicacy and synergy on this type of album, where the leader often has a slight tendency to take the spotlight with their instrument, which can, in some cases, also be interesting. Here, it’s primarily cohesion that dominates, pushing each artist to their limits and forming an overall rich musical architecture. One must truly concentrate to appreciate the sumptuous arrangements.
If you’re not accustomed to this kind of jazz, take the time to listen to this album leisurely. Unless you’re entirely averse to art, you’re likely to be captivated by this album, which doesn’t rely on excessive effects but is admirable in both the melodic aspect of the tracks and the high quality of the musicians’ performance. In this period leading up to the year-end festivities, it’s particularly enjoyable.
Clearly, the editorial teams of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move present to you one of their “Essentials.”
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, November 29th 2023
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To buy this album from December 6