Allen, JD
Savant, 2013, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 19.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Avant Garde
Performance: 3
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Grace is JD’s latest recording, his seventh as a leader and a continuation of his evolution. It is modern jazz that borders on Avant Garde. Bassist Dezron Douglas maintains the rhythm allowing Allen to explore freely with his sax. Elder Djangirov (p) and Jonathan Barber (d) fill in the blanks with cohesive glue that brings the songs together. We preferred the soft attack of songs like “Chagall” that amplify the narrative. Allen’s approach requires the listener to engage to appreciate the message. Those who capture the essence are rewarded.
Publicist: Jazz Depot
