| This is an SACD-Hybrid that will play in all SACD and standard CD players. What is interesting is that I wasn't
familiar with keyboard ace, James Carney, before this disc,
considering he has been Brooklyn-based since 2005 and has two
previous discs out. The rest of the fine musicians on this disc are
well-known to those hip to the vast downtown network. All of these
men are leaders on their own, as well as featured soloists in a
variety of situations too numerous to name. Power opens with an
ancient analogue synth growl that I haven't heard since the 70's, yet
it still works as Malaby provides some sizzling tenor, Roseman softly
burning on trombone, all fired up by Ferber's dynamic, propulsive
drums. The groove is just right and again out of the 70's with some
fine horn harmonies and a great solo by Ralph Alessi with Carney
playing some sly, funky electric piano underneath. Smog Cutter
features some funky synth & electric piano fueling another great
groove with some fine soprano from Mr. Epstein. Mr. Carney has a
knack for writing sumptuous melodies, great, somewhat greasy grooves
and enchanting arrangements for the four horns. His analogue is often
at the center of many of these tunes, yet it sounds warm and not
really outdated. What makes many of these pieces special is the way
James writes superb, layered harmonies for the horns, always rich in
tone and well executed. - DMG |