Raises Expectations for the Future
Ronald Lyles | West Hartford, CT | 05/05/2000
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Jimmy Greene is a young saxophonist from Hartford, Connecticutwho studied with Jackie McLean. McLean's influence on Greene is notas much on his sound as it is in Greene's integrity and understanding of what a privilege it is to play this music. On "Brand New World", his second session as a leader (although this is the first CD released under his leadership, he actually led a 1997 date for Criss Cross, "Introducing Jimmy Greene", that was released several weeks after this CD) Greene is joined by a core group of musicians that he has played with often since his arrival on the scene. The disc features Darren Barrett on trumptet, Steve Davis - trombone, Aaron Goldberg piano, Dwayne Burno - bass, Eric McPherson -drums, as well as Greene on tenor and soprano. Because of the musicians familiarity with each other, this is a relatively cohesive disc; as if made by a working band. The disc alternates between quartets and songs featuring the entire personnel. Greene is a fluid improvisor who is obviously searching for his own ideas. Although there is not much new or innovative in the music, it will be appreciated by anyone that enjoys modern mainstream bop based music. A couple of the cuts employ Goldberg on the fender rhodes without sounding comletely dated. Goldberg and Barrett also present themselves favorably, each contributing interesting solos throughout. A good introduction to a young man of whom we should have large expectations for the future."
Young Lion
Emmanuel A. Idowu | Detroit, Mi United States | 07/19/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This boy has a bright future.I like that fact that he composes his songs oppose of covering a bunch of jazz standards unlike most young cats out here. Even in his Criss Cross debut in 97 he composed half of the tracks on the album. Having mentors like Tom Harrell and Jackie McClean don't hurt. The boy has str8 talent and will definitely be on the jazz scene for a minute. Goldberg from Joshua Redman fame complements him well. This is hell of a buy for the price asked. Heck In paid $... for this CD in 2000. I still listen to it on a regular basis. I love the tracks where Aaron plays Fender Rhodes #3,#8. Renee is a beautiful ballad that showcases Greene vesatility playing Soprano oppose of Tenor. Don't sleep on this brother.Peace,
Emmanuel"