Search - Myron Walden, Darren Barrett, Eden Ladin :: Myron Walden Momentum Live

For the last 10 years Myron Walden's brought a unique brand of ardor to the bandstand, and it's become a signature of sorts. The music on this live date by Momentum, one of his newest ensembles, is marked by a sizzling sincerity--the kind of emotion that puts listeners on the edge of their seats. Known initially as an alto player, during the last few years he's also added the tenor sax to his arsenal--it's revitalized his attack. The thoughtfully crafted llines of an experienced bandleader now contain the fiery attitude of a newcomer. You can hear it as he bounces ideas off his band mates. Here's a team dedicated to making sparks fly, to prioritizing interaction, to moving as one. Check the exclamation lining "Of Three Worlds." Absorb the unity of "Pulse." Whether floating through reflective passages or tearing the room apart, his quintet is zealous about all their maneuvers. The live setting boosts this fervor. "Your appreciation drives us, inspires us," Walden tells the audience at one point. During a couple of other moments, you can hear him goading and cheering his on-stage team a la Charles Mingus. In a way, this date might be the most representative way to dig Walden's art. His studio stuff is definitely impressive, but a guy who writes songs about "the human heartbeat" should probably be heard interactiving with his musicians and listeners simultaneously. There's something ineffable in the air here, and as usual when it comes to Myron, it's got a lot to do with spontaneity and gusto. Jim Macnie