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David Hazeltine: Blues Quarters Vol. 1
ByIt should come as no surprise that Blues Quarters ranks among the finest albums in Hazeltine’s growing catalog. Just look at the cast involved- tenor phenom Eric Alexander, bassist Dwayne Burno, and drummer Joe Farnsworth. Supporting the belief that musical familiarity breeds excellence in exchange, the camaraderie among Hazeltine, Alexander, and Farnsworth has been proven countless times before, both live and on record. Three originals by Dave tap the harmonically fertile ground that also imbues his characteristic arrangements of such standards as “Milestones,” “Cry Me a River,” and “Spring is Here.”
In terms of artistic ripeness, each member of this group speaks so expressively that you can’t help but stay engaged. But this is where words start to fail. Call it artistic merit, stylistic individuality, or whatever else you’d like. These guys just cook. Sure, if you’re looking for something beyond the mainstream tradition, you won’t find it here. But hey, not everyone can be Roscoe Mitchell and so Dave and the boys get the “thumbs up” from me!
Track Listing
Naccara, Milestones, A Touch of Green, Spring Is Here, Blues Quarters, Cry Me A River, Cheryl, What Are You Doing?
Personnel
David Hazeltine
pianoEric Alexander (tenor sax), David Hazeltine (piano), Dwayne Burno (bass), Joe Farnsworth (drums)
Album information
Title: Blues Quarters Vol. 1 | Year Released: 2001 | Record Label: Criss Cross