Ray Brown Review
Before his death in July 2002 Ray Brown left the world with one final album – a disc with 20 tracks of pure jazz goodness, featuring Monty Alexander and Russell Malone. Needless to say, these are three of the most renowned jazz musicians of our time; Mr. Brown the bassist, Mr. Alexander the pianist, Mr. Malone the guitarist; indeed, this album does reflect their genius.
One would think that the lack of a percussionist would be noticeable, especially when it comes to jazz trios; and it is true – the absence of funky drums is apparent, however, this is by no means a bad thing. Opening with a classical piano solo and audibly witnessing Brown lead into “Django” with a smooth bass line, is only one of the many highlights to be heard. Brown and Malone together more than make up for the lost drummer – Brown’s bass lines are smooth and solid whilst Malone keeps the rhythm sweet with catchy guitar chords and an ear for the extraordinary, especially in “Fly Me to the Moon”: the guitar sounds rough and raw, in perfect juxtaposition to Monty Alexander’s lighthearted tickling on the keys as he plays through the theme of the classic.
As it is in jazz, each individual has his fair share of soloing time – and oh are they grand. If you have ever been fortunate enough to see any of these artists live, you will be familiar with concept of visually appreciating the technique and talent behind the sounds they conger – if not, there is all the more that you can get from purely listening to this music. Each and every one of these musicians have a knack for beautiful solos, challenging harmonies – and to make it all combine perfectly with the undercurrent of two brilliant musicians backing with rhythm and tunes is nothing if not impressive.
The Ray-Brow-trio compilation provides for an intimate and quiet sound, not only due to the absence of a drummer, but also thanks to the finesse and subtle deliberation provided by all three musicians. If you are looking for some luscious jazz to caress your eardrums – this is it.
One would think that the lack of a percussionist would be noticeable, especially when it comes to jazz trios; and it is true – the absence of funky drums is apparent, however, this is by no means a bad thing. Opening with a classical piano solo and audibly witnessing Brown lead into “Django” with a smooth bass line, is only one of the many highlights to be heard. Brown and Malone together more than make up for the lost drummer – Brown’s bass lines are smooth and solid whilst Malone keeps the rhythm sweet with catchy guitar chords and an ear for the extraordinary, especially in “Fly Me to the Moon”: the guitar sounds rough and raw, in perfect juxtaposition to Monty Alexander’s lighthearted tickling on the keys as he plays through the theme of the classic.
As it is in jazz, each individual has his fair share of soloing time – and oh are they grand. If you have ever been fortunate enough to see any of these artists live, you will be familiar with concept of visually appreciating the technique and talent behind the sounds they conger – if not, there is all the more that you can get from purely listening to this music. Each and every one of these musicians have a knack for beautiful solos, challenging harmonies – and to make it all combine perfectly with the undercurrent of two brilliant musicians backing with rhythm and tunes is nothing if not impressive.
The Ray-Brow-trio compilation provides for an intimate and quiet sound, not only due to the absence of a drummer, but also thanks to the finesse and subtle deliberation provided by all three musicians. If you are looking for some luscious jazz to caress your eardrums – this is it.