Search - Cecil Payne :: Chic Boom: Live at the Jazz Showcase

Straightahead and Swinging - 4 and 1/2 stars

John Tapscott | Canada | 09/02/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is the latest in an excellent series of recordings by baritone saxophonist Cecil Payne on the Delmark label. Payne tells the audience at the beginning of this live recording that they're in for a lesson in swing and he's right. This is great straightahead, swinging jazz that falls into the bop and hard bop category.
In the liner notes tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander speaks of Payne's "economy... and lightness of approach" on the baritone. This is certainly true, but Payne's playing is full of authority and interest (and Alexander would certainly agree). Payne's solos are logical, swinging, and satisfying. He always resolves even the most knotty line and adds real heft to the ensemble sound.
Payne has put together a fine band including Alexander, who is one of the most remarkable tenor players around these days, charging into his solos with great energy and passion. Trumpeter Jim Rotondi plays with a fire and lyricism which sometimes reminds me of Freddie Hubbard in his good days. Harold Mabern is an exciting, two handed piano player, while bassist John Webber and drummer Joe Farnsworth always keep the pots boiling. In fact, I've never heard a recording with Farnsworth that wasn't swinging at the highest level. Having him on a date seems to guarantee a satisfying, swinging recording.
Five of the tunes (including the theme) are uptempo swingers (though the tempos and rhythms are varied nicely) and two very interesting ballads provide a nice balance to the set. The music was mostly written by Payne (some in conjunction with Farnsworth). The one standard "Here's the Rainy Day" features Payne in a fine flute solo.
This CD is heartily recommended to all fans of hard swinging jazz (as are all of Payne's Delmark recordings)."