Search - Eric Alexander :: Second Milestone

Excellent.

Stephen Judkins | Portland, OR | 03/31/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I heard Mr. Alexander play for the first time at the Mt. Hood Jazz Festival in Portland this last summer. He sat in with Steve Turre's band, since their sax player couldn't make it due to an airplane-related snafu. The highlight of Turre's group(as the audience also felt, judging from their reaction) was Alexander's blistering solo over a few choruses of 'Cherokee'. Alexander's tone is big, round, and distinctive. While his playing is very Coltrane-like in many regards, his attack is anything but, with a distinctive sound that's all his own. His playing was fiery and exciting, exuding a playfullness and sense of creativity lacking in the following performance by Joshua Redman, who drew a stolid and self-indulgent counterpoint to Eric Alexander's unique and electrifying playing.The first track alone, 'Matchmaker, Matchmaker' is indicative of the quality and originality of this album. Here, Alexander takes a well-worn show tune that's hardly a jazz standard at all, and creates something new and exciting, not to mention fun to listen to. While 'Matchmaker, Matchmaker' is the album's high point, the rest does not disappoint. There aren't really any filler tracks at all; the playing remains inspired and fun all the way through.Mabern is an excellent pianist whose solos have a great structure to them. The rhythm section is generally unobtrusive and capable; it would be nice to hear more of them. Rotundi plays memorable solos on a couple of the tracks. All in all, highly recommended. If you're looking for a great, progressive post-bop sax player to listen to, this album will not disappoint."

Second Milestone

Steve Alpern | Towson, MD USA | 06/19/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is almost as good as his live performance in Baltimore in April. Eric has elements of George Coleman and John Coltrane in his playing. 'Matchmaker' reminds me a lot of Coltrane's 'Favorite Things'. Keep an eye on this guy - he's still young but is quickly becoming the top tenor player of his generation."

Second Milestone

Steve Alpern | Towson, MD USA | 06/19/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Almost as good as his live performance in Baltimore in April. Alexander has elements of George Coleman and John Coltrane in his playing and "Matchmaker" reminds me of Coltrane's famous "Favorite Things". This CD confirms to me that though still young Eric Alexander is quickly becoming the tenor player of his generation."