Helzer, Rick
9 Winds, 2005, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 11.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 3
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Rick plays piano and shows up here with Duncan Moore (drums), Chris Conner (bass) and some cool brass musicians. Each of the songs is a reflection on events, dedications and inspirational compositions. Helzer wrote all of the tracks. His influences were Kenny Wheeler, Mingus, Monk and the scriptures (both Old and New Testaments). The music borders on neo-bop and fusion with a level of complexity suggesting more of the former. The results are rich harmonies and refreshing new sound.
