Search - Steve Lacy :: Beat Suite

Beautiful settings of poetic gems

S. Wierenga | Rochester, NY United States | 10/14/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In one of his final recordings, soprano saxophonist Steve Lacy pays tribute to the Beat poets by setting their works to music. Lacy is joined by fellow MacArthur fellow George Lewis on trombone, Lacy's wife Irene Aebi on vocals, and his long-time rock-solid rhythm section of Jean-Jacques Avenel on bass and John Betsch on drums. Lacy's tunes are wondrously beautiful, and the playing throughout is empathic, deeply felt and downright moving. Aebi doesn't try to be a "jazz singer," and while her voice may take some getting used to, she sings the lyrics, in unison with Lacy's saxophone, with authority and conviction. Old pals Lacy and Lewis have never sounded better together, and they display ample justification for their "genius" grants. Avenel and Betsch are likewise superb, showcasing a collective feel honed by years playing as a rhythm section. In short, one of the best jazz CDs of 2003, and a beautiful bookend to a fabulous career. Highly recommended."

Mmmmm.... (eyes closed)

leo | Beijing, China | 10/25/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Aebi's vocal style is as original and nuanced as Lacy's reed. 2 rare birds of the same exquisite feather, I can't believe how beautifully they compliment eachother - back in the 70s when they first started working together it sounded amazing (or was it the 60s?) and now on this recent recording it's like a fine wine aged to perfection... just melts in your ears with an aftertaste like heaven."