Bayazitov, Azat
Rainy Days Records, 2020, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 26.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 89
O’s Notes: This is Act II for New York-based, Russian saxophonist Azat Bayazitov. He keeps good company with Adam Rogers (g), Boris Kozlov (b), David Kikoski (p) and Samuel Sarkisyan (d). The Doors Are Open is a strong session of originals that begs your attention. Azat opens “The Hugh Sky of Kazan”, a warm ballad before turning over the reins to Kozlov. Rogers and Bayazitov play the melodies in unison on many occasions, notably on “Midwest Steam Locomotive” giving the music a jazz-fusion feel. We also enjoyed “Past” and “A Highway To The Dreams”. There is no sophomore slump here with a very strong performance from Bayazitov and company!
Publicist: Lydia Liebman Promotions