Bailey, John
Freedom Road Records, 2020, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 26.3
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 90
O’s Notes: Trumpeter John Bailey ignites the fire on “Pebbles In The Pocket” one of three hot originals. Trombonist Stafford Hunter joins the party with a burning solo hot on his heels. Stacey Dillard (sax) complements Bailey’s horn along with special guest Earl McIntyre (b-tb, tuba) on “President Gillespie Suite”. Edsel Gomez (p), Mike Karn (b) and Victor Lewis (d) establish a strong foundation for Bailey to build on, and extending into the melodies where appropriate with crisp accents. There are also relaxed tunes like “Ballad From Oro Incienso Y Morra” and “Elite State of Mind” to balance the heat making Can You Imagine? a winner. John is attempting to unite Americans with social justice through music. It certainly feels good!
Publicist: Braithwaite & Katz
