Hey, Jazz lovers! Grab your shades, a cool drink, and buckle up because we're about to delve deep into the soulful realm of Jazz with David Murray's album "Home." And let me tell ya, this ain't your run-of-the-mill album; it's a full-blown JazzStravaganza! This gem from the Black Saint label is like a secret map to Treasure Island, a musical voyage that will whisk you away to uncharted territories you never knew existed.
Now, the man of the hour, David Murray—oh, he's not just any cat. This guy's a legend, a big cheese in the Jazz scene, and with "Home," he rolled out the red carpet for his second act with the Octet. And the lineup? Oh, you gotta hear this, the crew he's got onboard is a dream team of Jazz virtuosos. It's like the who's who of Jazz superheroes: Henry Threadgill, Olu Dara, Lawrence "Butch" Morris, George E. Lewis, Anthony Davis, Wilbur Morris, and Steve McCall. It's like assembling the Avengers of Jazz. They're not just playing music; they're cooking up a storm in the Jazz kitchen.
The album kicks off with the title track, "Home," your invitation to the party, setting the stage for the magic that follows. From there, we're taken on a wild ride with "Santa Barbara and Crenshaw Follies," a tune that will have you swaying and bopping like you're the star of your own Jazz musical. "Choctaw Blues" then eases you into a mellow mood, slowing things down just enough to let you catch your breath before diving back in. "Last of the Hipmen" is a nod to the old-school Jazz legends, a tip of the hat, a classy tribute to the Jazz cats who paved the way in this mesmerizing genre. And wrapping it all up, the grand finale, "3-D Family," is the kind of tune that will stick in your head and make your feet move, even when you think you're done.
What really makes "Home" stand out is the perfect blend of structured compositions and freewheeling solos. It's like a playground where precision meets passion. Murray's compositions are intricate tapestries, meticulously crafted, yet there's a whole lot of space for his bandmates to strut their stuff and go wild. It's similar to a well-choreographed dance between order and chaos, which could sometimes remind you of a tightrope walker skillfully juggling flaming torches. This dynamic interplay not only highlights Murray’s amazing skills as a composer but also underscores his exceptional leadership as a band leader.
And hey, it's not just me talking; don't just take my word for it. The big shots are all over this one, singing its praises too. The Rolling Stone Jazz Record Guide lauds its balance between structure and improvisation, and Scott Yanow from AllMusic? He's tipping his hat to Murray's vibrant and bold writing, calling it consistently colorful and unpredictable.
So, if your soul's craving some timeless Jazz, "Home" is where you wanna be. It's a masterclass in Jazz wizardry, a testament to the boundless talent and creativity of David Murray and his crew, and a celebration of Jazz that is as enduring as it is innovative. Whether you're a Jazz connoisseur or just dipping your toes in, "Home" is gonna sweep you off them. So kick back, settle in, and let David Murray's "Home" wash all over you.
"Music should not have any mandates. Jazz is not supposed to be something that is required to sound like Jazz."
— Wayne Shorter