| Tribute to Paradise is a remarkably sympathetic pairing of one of the most innovative saxophonists working today with the exquisite ingénue of the vocal free form stage. On this recording, Ellen Christi and Gary Hassay create a sound stage that transports the audience to an otherworldly peace far above the daily mechanisms of living.
As with all of Gary’s music, there are multiple layers of meanings and forms. Is it perhaps coincidence that the three tracks dedicated to the late great master mouthpiece craftsman, Jon Van Wie, feature Gary without his alto and only his voice? I think not. There is a poignant irony in this, but that is a trademark of Gary’s music. To know his music, is to know him…. maybe, depending on how deeply one listens.
In total harmony with Gary’s concept, Ellen’s vocals are fearless. Few singers would even know where to begin styling off of Gary’s intricate phrasings, but Ellen not only knows where to begin, she knows where to lead, and just as importantly where to pause to let the music breath.
On Tribute to Paradise, Gary and Ellen have created a tribute indeed. But not in the literal sense. This music is a tribute to living without fear, without boundaries, and without the constraints of yesterday. A music rich with confidence and the promise of a new “paradise”.
9 tracks in 57 minutes. |