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Various: Live - Jazz Legends
Though a live set, LiveJazz Legends is a typical CBC project. Spearheaded by the dedicated teams at Radio Two (CBC's English-speaking music radio network) and Espace Musique (its French-speaking alter ego), the two-date event, taped on location in Vancouver, British Columbia and Montreal, Quebec, features established as well as upcoming artists of both cultures.
The opportunity it offers the younger generation (namely saxophonists Evan Arntzen, Tara Davidson, trumpeter David Carbonneau and bassist Karine Chapdelaine) while generous in intention, feels somewhat restrained contextually. The two lethargic, mid-tempo blues, as well as Paul Simon's rather dreadful "Still Crazy After All These Years"all accounting for more than one-third of the total playing timethat serve as their showcases, leave one's piqued curiosity hanging. While Carbonneau's conspicuous Kenny Dorham/Lee Morgan-influenced phrasing and moans are quite entertaining, one longs to hear him play something more adventurous than yet another twelve-bar blues (there are three on the album).
Out of retirement for the occasion, fleet-fingered pianist Oliver Jones graces the program with his rooted-in-gospel playing. With stalwart bassist Michel Donato and Terry Clarke's un-deterring drumming, they provide the solid support required on such swinging sessions. On trombonist Ian MacDougall's infectious "Zimbabwe," the seasoned veterans treat the audience to a genuine, head-bopping feast.
But, considering the innumerable options available to potential buyers (not to mention the CBC itself), Live-Jazz Legends remains a marginal release. And, although one-third of the disc is somewhat commercially un-compelling, one can objectively root for a warm reception.
Track Listing
Teaneck; Bleu Sur Le Vif; If You Could See Now; Stolen Moments; Zimbabwe; Song For Ruth; Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are; When You Wish Upon a Star/Someone to Watch Over Me; Still Crazy After All These Years.
Personnel
Oliver Jones: piano; Michel Donato: bass; Terry Clarke: drums; Ian MacDougall: trombone; P.J.Perry: alto sax; David Charbonneau: trumpet (4, 7, 9); Evan Arntzen: tenor sax (4, 7, 9); Tara Davidson: alto sax (7, 9); Karine Chapdelaine: bass (7, 9).
Album information
Title: Live - Jazz Legends | Year Released: 2007 | Record Label: CBC Records