Label: Impact Jazz, 2023
Personnel - Derrick Gardner: trumpet; Robert Dixon: alto and tenor saxophone; Vincent Gardner: trombone; George Caldwell: piano; Obasi Akoto: bass; Kweku Sumbry: drums, percussion.
Proficient trumpeter Derrick Gardner, a native from Chicago, Illinois, leads the Jazz prophets - a pliable sextet furnished with expressive players - since 1991. His latest effort, Pan Africa, was inspired by a visit to Ghana and pays tribute to his ancestors, the African diaspora and the Pan African movement.
The efficient djembe work of Kweku Sumbry marks the traditional “Djemba Kan”, which serves as an introductory channel to Jackie McLean’s exuberant “Appointment in Ghana”. The vibrant hard-bop tradition of this piece swings and shines with effortless perfection. The horn players make a powerful thematic announcement and then depart for individual solos, showing no reluctance when it comes to express their individuality - the bandleader chains slippery notes with a crystal bop sparkle; saxophonist Robert Dixon shows off outside flexibility; and Derrick’s brother, the trombonist Vincent Gardner, brings an understandable language to the fore prior to the reinstatement of the theme.
If the rhythmic patterns forge ahead in the latter, then on the Dixon-penned “10,000 Ships” there’s a controlled polyrhythm that stems from gorgeous melody set against a languid 12-beat-cycle bass groove. A 4/4 rock-driven rhythm marks the B section in a tune that call to mind oodles of African slaves in the sea.
The Afro-bop demeanor in “The Sixth Village” conjures up the supple spirit of Dizzy Gillespie (with whom Gardner worked in the past), being reinforced by a strong percussive backdrop. Incandescent horn unisons spread out for a collective improvisation by the end, and in addition to the frontline members, there is a soloing opportunity for pianist George Caldwell, who deftly commands his left hand to provide structure to the textural undertones.
The bassist Obasi Akoto is featured on Victor Day’s danceable “Highlife Suite” and on Gardner’s “Vicente, the Afro Mestizo”, one of the best pieces on the album. The propulsive African-rooted rhythm of the latter's theme forms a refreshing aural palette and a swinging motion that boosts the improvisers for another round. They speak, not just frankly, but also eloquently.
Developed in six and in an Art Blakey’s hard-bop fashion, "Nkrumah ‘da Rulah” shows off an enveloping warm sound that is challenged by the flamboyant breaks of Sumbry as he probes beyond normal routines. This catchy album showcases a variety of rhythms and textures, celebrating Pan-Africanism with brio and intensity.
Favorite Tracks:
02 - Appointment in Ghana ► 04 - The Sixth Village ► 07 - Vicente, the Afro Mestizo