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Alex Levin Trio: A Reason for Being Alone |
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Written by Carmel DeSoto
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Friday, 04 May 2007 |
 Pianist/Composer Alex Levin’s new CD entitled, A Reason for Being Alone, provides yet another angle to the rich straight ahead jazz tradition with a set of creative originals that provide a sense of freshness, yet familiarity, through the use of various styles, varied instrumentation, solid writing, and well executed playing by all.
The central core of the project is comprised of: Levin on piano, drummer Taylor Davis and Diallo House on acoustic bass. This central core is augmented on various selections by: Max Hacker and Stacey Dillard (tenor saxophones), Chad Coe (guitar), and William Martina (cello). The opening track, “Blues on Thursday,” brings to mind Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with a bluesy unison sax melody that is juxtaposed against relaxed hits by the band. This mid-tempo swing selection has some fine tenor sax playing by both Max Hacker and Stacey Dillard. Levin provides a beautiful intro to “A Reason for Being Alone” that is very reminiscent of Keith Jarrett. The composition develops into a straight eight pulsed selection with Levin displaying his ability to build a solo with clearly articulated themes and moods which are all nicely matched by House and Davis.
“Emma’s Ennui” provides a nice texture change with the addition of William Martina on cello and Chad Coe on nylon strung guitar. The relaxed bossa nova’s melody and harmony is a cross between “Gentle Rain” and “How Insensitive.” Again this provides the listener with a sense of freshness, yet familiarity, all conveyed with thoughtful articulate playing. “Her Solitary Wish” finds the trio in full blowin’ swing mode that will bring back thoughts of the Miles Davis cool cookin’ relaxin’ and steamin’ sounds. “Your Call” is a great modern swing selection! Levin’s voicings are laden with rich sounding fours and seconds and his solo is just swingin’! Max Hacker (tenor sax) is no hack either!
This is a great find! The sound quality is great and the playing is the same. The familiarity of material that is always presented with freshness and thoughtfulness is sure to grab the jazz fans ears and give them A Reason for Being Alone with the Alex Levin’s musical novel, which will hopefully have a sequel soon!
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