From Solo Piano Publications
Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 01/12/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Bradley Sowash is quite simply one of the best pianists on the contemporary scene. It is impossible to pigeon-hole him into one category, as his style continues to evolve and grow, making each of his recordings a unique experience. "We Gather Together" is a fascinating collection of jazz arrangements and improvisations on some of the best-loved hymns and spirituals of all time. Sowash's solo piano is so strong and expressive that he commands an entire orchestra, choir, and congregation with his ten fingers and eighty-eight keys! His arrangements are extremely personal, and yet communicate universally. Many of the arrangements include traditional gospel styles as part of the "theme and variations", and others are a bit "smoother." The addition of the history of many of the hymns as well as Sowash's personal experiences in putting this album together make reading the liner notes richly satisfying, adding even more dimension to the work as a whole.
The collection opens with "Amazing Grace", probably the best-known and best-loved American hymn of all time. Sowash gives it both sacred and secular treatments. "Wade in the Water" is a real treat and one of my favorites. With ragtime and stride elements, this is a toe-tapper! "Jesus Loves Me" was a real surprise. A favorite childhood Sunday School song, I never would have imagined that the sweet, simple little melody could become such a complex jazz tune! Great fun! I wasn't familiar with "Deep River", but this arrangement is evocative and funky at the same time. Dark and earthy with lots of deep bass notes and chords, this is another favorite. "There Is a Balm in Gilead" takes a somewhat quieter approach, and builds momentum as it develops. All fourteen tracks are excellent, and give a showcase to Sowash's broad range of styles while keeping a cohesive theme. I give "We Gather Together" both thumbs up and am including it in my "Best of 2001" list. Very highly recommended!"
From JazzReview.com
Bradley Sowash | 12/09/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Bradley Sowash is a jazz pianist who knows how to make the jazz come to life in hymns and spirituals for solo jazz piano performance! WE GATHER TOGETHER showcases the many styles and jazz interpretations of Sowash as he performs his innovative arrangements of 14 spiritual standards. Among these gems of musical expression are "Amazing Grace," "Wade in the Water," "Bringing in the Sheaves," "Jesus Loves Me," "Poor Wayfaring Stranger," "Deep River," "What A Friend We Have In Jesus," among other songs. When a jazz pianist as good as Bradley Sowash puts his imaginative touch to these songs, it is a genuine sharing experience with the audience, and one to be remembered. His playing is flawless, and his piano techniques are varied and creative as readily seen in "There Is A Balm in Gilead," and "The River Is Wide." Sowash is a master of stride piano and reveals his talent for this complex piano style in "Wade in the Water." His stride style is topnotch. WE GATHER TOGETHER is that rare item --- good production values, good sound, matched with a pianist with an excellent touch who knows that every note is important. Bradley Sowash shares his jazz visions with the audience in a memorable collection. This is one of the finest jazz performances ever recorded of the spiritual, "Bringing in the Sheaves." WE GATHER TOGETHER is excellent in all aspects. WE GATHER TOGETHER is a 14 song collection that audiences will want to own and enjoy often. If you are looking for an entertaining, enjoyable gift for a friend, give that friend a copy of WE GATHER TOGETHER. Bradley Sowash's WE GATHER TOGETHER is a classic, straight-ahead jazz collection, filled with musical insights and joy. - Lee Prosser from JazzReview.com"
Fantastic!
N. Besson | San Diego, CA USA | 03/08/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Sowash plays solid jazz piano merged with gospel for a fresh and interesting experience. This album is an inspiration to pastoral pianists everywhere!"
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1