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Darrell Grant: Smokin' Java
ByGrant's percussive style flows gently and yet manages to combine syncopation and swing with his intended lyricism. The pianist's bouncy "Spring Skylight" weaves several melodic lines into the song as a consonant harmony spreads out in both directions. By design, Grant's performance involves several layers of agreeable harmony. Joe Locke's vibraphone adds a resounding layer on top of the others, letting phrases ring out seamlessly while sustaining chord combinations. His two-mallet approach to melody brings action to the session that parallels Grant's exciting right-hand keyboard work. Donald Harrison's sleek alto saxophone delivers loping melodies that are quite effective on ballads such as "Quiet Times" and "You Must Believe in Spring." He and Locke work in tandem to double up at times and to trade phrases at other times. Both share a love of seamless phrasing.
Brian Blade's shimmery brush and cymbal textures color the ballads appropriately, while his stickwork on pieces such as "If I Should Lose You" and Locke's up-tempo "Slander" create the smoke this album's title suggests. Deep bass riffs from Bob Stata doubled by Grant's left hand create a powerful force that rides this modern mainstream session through storm and sunshine. Highly recommended, Smokin' Java brings timeless music into the arena with a balance of muscular power and peaceful daydreams.
Track Listing
Little Jimmy Fiddler; If I Should Lose You; You Must Believe In Spring; Spring Skylight; Goodbye; Quiet Times; Slander; Smokin' Java.
Personnel
Darrell Grant
pianoDarrell Grant: piano; Joe Locke: vibraphone; Donald Harrison: alto saxophone; Bob Stata: acoustic bass; Brian Blade: drums.
Album information
Title: Smokin' Java | Year Released: 2000 | Record Label: Lair Hill Records