Smith, Daniel
Summit, 2015, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 21.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 5
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: We think this is perhaps the best album yet from bassoonist Daniel Smith. It is broken into three different segments with three different band configurations. Smith is in his native element with the “Baroque Adaptations” that start the session. The “Scott Joplin Rags” with strings are a perfect transition before more straight-ahead jazz. We really loved the “Jazz Suite” notably the “Finale” with vibraphonist Jim Lawless. All are arranged for bassoon and fit into Smith’s sweet spot for tone and accuracy. That is not to suggest making a bassoon sound sweet in the lead role is an easy feat but Daniel is well up to the task. The peacefulness and warmth of this CD make it stand out in his repertoire. It’s not all jazz but is all enjoyable and very good music.
Publicist: Jazz Promo Services