Label: Origin Records, 2024
Personnel - David Weiss: trumpet; Myron Walden: alto saxophone; Nicole Glover: tenor saxophone; David Bryant: piano; Eric Wheeler: bass; EJ Strickland: drums.
Trumpeter and composer David Weiss assembles a dynamic sextet for his latest album, Auteur, featuring both longtime collaborators—alto saxophonist Myron Walden and drummer EJ Strickland—and fresh voices like pianist David Bryant, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover, and bassist Eric Wheeler. The album showcases seven passionate tracks, including five original compositions by Weiss and two previously unrecorded pieces by jazz greats Freddie Hubbard and Slide Hampton.
Weiss’ fiery post-bop composition “Too Little, Too Late” opens the album with a vigorous tone and pace. The three horn players each take turns soloing, starting with Walden, who alternates between staccato-infused motivic ideas and fluid, lyrical phrasing. Weiss follows with a continuous, agile flow of notes, blending bop hooks with a remarkable fluency, while Glover contributes a more contemporary edge. Bryant, a powerful presence whether soloing or comping, rounds off the improvisational sequence, and opens the next one, “Resilience (for George)”, a tribute to pianist George Cables. Weiss’ leading trumpet has plenty of melodic back up from the saxophonists during the theme statement.
“The Other Side of the Mountain” displays translucent cymbal washes at the outset, painting a mix of contemplative and lively scenery before becoming rapturously Coltranean. “With Gratitude (for Wayne)”, an homage to saxophonist Wayne Shorter, traverses three sections with slightly funky passages and generous emotional touch.
Freddie Hubbard's unrecorded composition, “Rebop” channels the high energy of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, with Strickland taking an active and animated role on the drums. “One For Bu”, penned by trombonist Slide Hampton as a tribute to Blakey, takes off with an irresistible modal bop energy, featuring amazing horn fills during the solos, in a harmonious arrangement that highlights the sextet’s cohesion.
Auteur provides such an intense experience that might leave listeners craving a moment to breathe, but the sheer energy and musicianship on display make it a compelling journey from start to finish.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - Too Little, Too Late ► 02 - Resilience (For George) ► 07 - One For Bu