The British-born bassist, composer, and bandleader Dave Holland was a key figure in Miles Davis's high-flying fusion groups of the '60s and '70s. He's played with everyone from Herbie Hancock to Chick Corea, and many young... more » lions such as Steve Coleman and Tonight Show drummer Marvin "Smitty" Smith played in his bands in the '80s. This splendid CD teams Holland with alto/soprano/tenor saxophonist Chris Potter, the marvelous vibraphonist Steve Nelson, trombonist Robin Eubanks, and drummer Billy Kilson. Holland is an inventive and engaging composer, and he arguably has the deepest bass sound in the music. Everything he writes swings and grooves--from the dancing Afro-Caribbean-tinged numbers "Global Citizen" and "Lost and Found" to the exotic Saharan syncopations on "Shifting Sands" to the rapid-fire tempo on "Cosmosis." Sonically embellished by Potter's elliptical solos, Nelson's shimmering lines, Eubanks bravado 'bone bursts, and Kilson's rhythmic labyrinths, Dave Holland's sure-handed bass tones lay the foundation for some good jazz music. --Eugene Holley Jr.« less
The British-born bassist, composer, and bandleader Dave Holland was a key figure in Miles Davis's high-flying fusion groups of the '60s and '70s. He's played with everyone from Herbie Hancock to Chick Corea, and many young lions such as Steve Coleman and Tonight Show drummer Marvin "Smitty" Smith played in his bands in the '80s. This splendid CD teams Holland with alto/soprano/tenor saxophonist Chris Potter, the marvelous vibraphonist Steve Nelson, trombonist Robin Eubanks, and drummer Billy Kilson. Holland is an inventive and engaging composer, and he arguably has the deepest bass sound in the music. Everything he writes swings and grooves--from the dancing Afro-Caribbean-tinged numbers "Global Citizen" and "Lost and Found" to the exotic Saharan syncopations on "Shifting Sands" to the rapid-fire tempo on "Cosmosis." Sonically embellished by Potter's elliptical solos, Nelson's shimmering lines, Eubanks bravado 'bone bursts, and Kilson's rhythmic labyrinths, Dave Holland's sure-handed bass tones lay the foundation for some good jazz music. --Eugene Holley Jr.
"Dave Holland and company have done it again. This disc is quite similar to Prime Directive (as one might expect), with 5 compositions by Holland, and each member of his group contributing a composition of his own. As usual, the group sails through just about any style or time signature, thanks in no small part to one of the jazz worlds finest rhythm sections. There's also plenty of interplay between Chris Potter and Robin Eubanks, as there was on Prime Directive, and Potter's playing on this session is some of his best ever recorded (his composition is fantastic as well). Dave Himself delivers some great rhythmic support as well as some fine soloing (except for one nasty out of tune note at the beginning of track 2 - oops), and drummer Billy Kilson is definately taking his vitimans. Steve's mallet playing seems more focused here than on P.D. and he adds some rotovibe effect on some tunes, which is a nice addition. Holland's latest group has been one of the most intriguing and innovative in the jazz world during the past 4 years, and this CD keeps up the group's impressive legacy. Get this disc and go see them live if you can - quite an experience."
So good it surprises me every time
G B | Connecticut | 11/04/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"There's a lot of things I like hearing in jazz -- improvisation that takes chances or goes a little "out", memorable compositions and melodies, a great sense of groove, ballads ("Shifting Sands"), fast swingers ("Cosmosis"), complex interplay between great musicians, unpredictability, high energy, a mix of the earthy and the cerebral -- the list goes on and on. The great thing about Not for Nothin' (and its equally great predecessor, Prime Directive) is that in under 75 minutes, it covers all these bases. This is a group that's not afraid to venture into semi-free territory and then mix it with some of the catchiest, most upbeat tunes since Weather Report; that can toss in funk, Afro-Latin and rock rhythms while swinging all the way and never sounding stiff. Billy Kilson will be the first guy you'll notice, as his drumming is really outstanding. Robin Eubanks (trombone) and Chris Potter (saxophones) make a great frontline, whether they are soloing individually or engaged in a boisterous dialogue. Steve Nelson, on marimba and vibes, is a sort of antithesis to the other guys, always calming down the music. And of course, Dave Holland provides the backbone as well as 5 of the killer compositions on this album. Eubanks's grooving "Global Citizen" is a personal favorite, as is Holland's slightly sinister "What Goes Around" and Nelson's dreamy "Go Fly a Kite". The music never ceases to surprise me. An addictive album by one of the best groups around today."
The Heavyweight Champ
George Grella | Brooklyn | 12/06/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Ne Plus Ultra of of modern jazz, certainly one of the best jazz records of the past few years and easily the best from this version of the Dave Holland groups. Which is saying something because 'Points of View' and 'Prime Directive' were excellent recordings. The Quintet has hit it's stride partially through the addition of Chris Potter, who is already a strong individual voice and is a great musical fit with hornmate Robin Eubanks and seems a genetic match for Hollands brand of driving, rhythmic ensemble play. Billy Kilson will not be the ideal jazz drummer for everyone's taste, but he is the ideal partner for Holland; assured, uncomplicated, incredibly tight with the bassist. And as for the leader, probably the greatest testament to his musicianship is that he is the engine that drives this group yet his playing is so unobtrusive - a musician's musician.For those familiar with this group, the sound and the quality of the pieces is the same. In fact, I'm hard-pressed to distinguish one track from another via title, but that is yet another tribute to this group. The tunes are pleasing, but they really exist to provide a framework for great ensemble playing and soloing. And while the veneer of sound may be polished enough for a few minutes on 'fuzack' radio, the fire, timbral and harmonic daring set the 'M' in Modern. Cool, funky, fiery, witty, great jazz music for the start of the 21st century."
Dave Holland Quintet Continues its Stellar Trajectory!
zimri-lim | London, England | 10/03/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Another superb, quality release from, arguably, the strongest ensemble working in Jazz today. Taking off from where the quintet's previous disc "Prime Directive" led, this release oozes class from the sax/trombone/vibes foreground to the bass/percussion rhythm section. The sound is full and satisfying with all five musicians working hard but cooperatively throughout. Individually the members of the quintet are outstanding musicians but most importantly they manage to retain their musical character while playing brilliantly off each other too.The music is at time driving and at times relective and lush but always outstandingly musical. Hidden depths are revealed through repeated listening and the themes and hooks will reel in the unsuspecting listener after a few auditions.In my opinion this is the most creative and accomplished unit in Jazz today - looking forward to find new ways to express their musical ideas but always retaining a sympathetic musical appeal which makes the music accessible.Dave Holland pulls out another masterpiece and earns a unhesitating "Buy" recommendation from this reviewer!"
Another One Like The Other One...
A. Davis | Greenville, SC | 07/13/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Dave Holland continues his quest for excellence with this beautiful follow-up to last year's exceptional "Prime Directive." This is jazz at its' highest enjoyment level. This quintet is the tightest thing going today. This music is fresh, challenging and fun to listen to. It still amazes me how these musicians interact with each other without stepping all over their own toes. They swirl and dance around these well written compositions as if they were at a well coordinated synchronized dance recital. Holland and Kilson are a perfect pair- groove deep and at the same time explosive in their solo efforts. Eubanks and Potter are a perfect horn duo. They push each other to new levels on this recording, while mr. Nelson glues together these complex offering with some of the best vibes I have heard in the last ten years. In today's marketing of often over-hyped new artist, it is great to see a seasoned pro with a long-standing band get his proper due. Down Beat just recently showered Dave with multiple honors for this recording and band. I read recently that his next project is the Dave Holland Big Band. That will include the current quintet plus five other musicians. Now I can't wait to hear the magic that will be spun from that group. A September release is greatly anticipated. Dave Holland's music has been constantly evolving since his beautiful "Conference of The Birds" in the early 70's. "Not For Nothing" is a great record. Keep up the good work, Dave. Peace!"