Listening Log: Week 2

This week’s Listening Log was dominated by incredible saxophonists, plus one legendary pianist.

Whimsy – Sharel Cassity

Sharel Cassity’s latest album, Fearless, starts with high energy right from its first track. Whimsy sets the tone for the album consisting of imaginative originals and an exciting reimagining of The Very Thought of You, one of my favorite standards.

Part 2. Saudade – Immanuel Wilkins

Immanuel Wilkins made a great impression with his debut album, Omega. I was particularly taken by his four-movement piece, how it builds in energy and is immensely expressive.

Them That Got – Maceo Parker

I enjoyed listening to Maceo Parker’s album Roots Revisited. It’s an eclectic offering of music that was energetic and sincere. I particularly enjoyed the swinging, blues-infused track Them That Got.

Apache Dance – George Coleman

George Coleman’s album Amsterdam After Dark is full of hard-hitting music filled with intensity and ingenuity. His contrafact of the classic Cherokee is elastic and inventive.

A Beautiful Friendship – Gerri Allen

Geri Allen’s live album Some Aspect of Water is captivating. She uses a variety of instrumentations, each with a unique quality, but the track that most resonated with me was her piano trio rendition of A Beautiful Friendship. She seamlessly transitions from a contemplative rubato piano solos to the lively groove of the tune. I never heard anyone do that with such a sense of ease.

What do you think of this week’s listening log? Who’s music is grabbing your attention these days?