Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Michael Dease: Clarity
Michael Dease: Clarity
ByAnd without those two pioneers, Michael Deasewho was surely destined for musicmight be doing his thing on tenor saxophone.
Dease, a graduate of The Julliard School, cites both Fuller and Johnson as influences. His sound is big and warm, articulate and full of zest. On Clarity, he's put together a set of cool, swinging mainstream jazz. Dease's chops are impeccable, and he proves himself a fine composer and arranger on nine original compositions, rounded out by Kurt Weill's "Speak Low."
Dease's tone can be quite bold, even brash, as on "One 4 Steve," a nod to fellow 'bone man, Steve Turre. It can also be warm, mellifluous and soothing, as it is on the aptly titled "Lullaby for Rita." And he can bounce along with a springy stride, as he does on "You Dig?" Dease is an artist obviously in full control of his instrument.
The trombonist has put together a fine band here, with Brandon Lee (trumpet) and Sharel Cassity (alto sax) trading solo space with the leader. Pianist Kris Bowers adds some stinging, sparkling light counterpoint, with a killer solo on "You Dig?" that contrasts Dease's big horn sound. Pianist Eric Reed sits in on three cuts and tenor saxophonist Victor Goines guests on three more.
Dease proves himself a talented young artist with Clarity; a trombone master with a bright future.
Track Listing
Relentless; One 4 Steve; Lullaby For Rita; Mixed Feelings; You Dig?; Believe; Elusive; Top of The Morning; Clarity; Speak Low.
Personnel
Michael Dease
tromboneMichael Dease: trombone; Brandon Lee: trumpet; Sharel Cassity: alto saxophone; Kris Bowers: piano; Mathew Heredia: bass; Marion Felder: drums (2, 4, 7); Kenneth Salters: drums (1, 5, 6, 9); Mark Whitfield, Jr.: drums (3, 8, 10); Victor Goines: tenor saxophone (2, 4, 9); Eric Reed: piano (1, 3, 10).
Album information
Title: Clarity | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Blues Back Records