| The Alex Candelaria CD "Yeahway" , on the Evander Music label, is his first jazz quartet date as a leader. The music reflects his uniquely lyrical and improvisational take on "jazz composers" standards of the 60's and 70's such as Simone (F.Foster) , Opus 4( Mingus) and Jeannine (D.Pearson). In addition there are two originals that display both a lyrical focus (Protophasia) and a more intense, freer harmonic exploration (Yeahway). Alex Candelaria is a guitar voice in jazz worth investigating. His playing is marked by a fluidity which is both driving and melodic. On "Yeahway" he displays the influence of modern guitar playing while staying in touch with essential aspects of the jazz tradition. |