I must admit, I'm not sure how long the list of world class UK saxophonists is, but I doubt it's too long. And having heard this album by YolanDa Brown, I have little doubt she will be on it.
Jazz/Blues music isn't exactly in the usual comfort zone for this particular reviewer, but - at the behest of a trusted music source - I gave this album a try and wasn't disappointed.
The playing on this album, from all musicians, is superb. But, standing head and shoulders above them all, is the leading lady YolanDa Brown. Her saxophone is clear and never wobbles, which (considering these are live recordings) is truly impressive.
|
As a non-jazz fan, my only bugbear is that this doesn't stray much from a slow, mellow sound, and no matter how good the playing is it does drag at times. It would have been nice if there'd been more upbeat, rhythmic tunes to enjoy. The prevalence of slow chords and lengthy melodies is impressive, but does get a bit samey by the end.
Perhaps this is the kind of thing that true fans of the genre will be able to ignore (sorry), but what I will say is this: this is truly impressive work from a world-class talent.
|
