Search - Gerald Cleaver :: Gerald Cleaver's Detroit

This is an outstanding disc!

Whispering Veal- | Redington Shores, Florida, USA | 07/01/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This disc, which came out about a year ago, is absolutely marvelous. Before it goes into the dustbin of history, I want to give it its proper respect.



The concept of this album is linked, at least in title, with Yusef Lateef's Detroit, an album from the late '60's. I have never listened to that album, but I did hear some it live. In any case, this disc is a homage to Gerald Cleaver's hometown.



There are several outstanding aspects to this music. It is very diverse, sounding at times like some of the great Blue Note albums of the '60's (Soul Station, Maiden Voyage, Black Fire, etc.), at times like early McCoy Tyner (particularly Extensions), at times like Charles Mingus at his best, and at times like ultra-modern free jazz. Despite this variety, there seems to be a unifying thread running through all of the music.



The players and the playing are outstanding throughout. Jeremy Pelt and J.D. Allen are outstanding on trumpet and tenor sax, respectively. They are two of the brightest talents in modern jazz. Gerald Cleaver is an excellent drummer, holding everything together yet still engaging the listener with his inventive and varied technique. I was unfamiliar with Ben Waltzer (piano) and Chris Lightcap (bass) before this disc, but each makes a terrific contribution. Waltzer's chameleon-like ability to shift styles yet continually define the parameters of the music is amazing. Andrew Bishop provides multiple instruments, including bass clarinet (a homage to Benny Maupin) and soprano sax. On several tunes, the theme is stated by just soprano sax and trumpet, a unique, interesting, and engaging sound.



My favorite tunes are Far East Side, Henry, Dorham, and Detroit (keep it in mind). I don't know why marching bands across America don't put Detroit (keep it in mind) in their repertoire, as it is both anthemic and upbeat. In the spirit of full disclosure, I grew up on the Far East Side of Detroit, but that has not biased my view that that tune is the best on the disc. It opens with a disparate variety of free jazz playing, and then coalesces around a compelling (Ron Carter-esque) bass line. It is also perfect how the music fades into The Silly One, which opens with a Maupinesque statement by the bass clarinet.



After repeated listenings, this music never fails to be thought-provoking, always leaves me wanting more, and always lifts my spirits. You cannot go wrong by buying this disc!"