The latest generation of creative musicians has become increasingly
involved in the intermingling of written composition and improvisation. Guitarist Miles Okazaki has provided a great example of what the blending of structure and freedom can achieve in his latest CD, Generations.Okazaki is an original composer who puts a lot of thought into his work. The music provides a perfect lab for his experiments in blending rhythmic, melodic and harmonic elements.
Okazaki’s ensemble features a unique lineup of three saxophones (David Binney, Miguel Zenon and Christof Knoche), vocalist Jen Shyu, bassist Jon Flaugher and drummer Dan Weiss. All tracks were recorded live in the studio without interruption. This allows the listener to experience the music as an entire piece that blends elements together from song to song. Generations is effective as a sweeping creative composition and as an assemblage of amazing soloists working in a forward looking musical context. |