Howes, Christian
Resonance, 2010, CD
Instrument: Violin
Issue: 16.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Jazz violinists are small in numbers and especially good ones. Howes is among the best and restates his case on Out of the Blue, a nice mix of modern jazz and groovin’ blues. They open with a solid cover of Corea’s “Fingerprints” followed by a ragtime blues classic “I’m Walkin'”. Howes quickly establishes his prowess with high-energy solos. Guitarist Robben Ford joins Christian with many dual fleeting lead lines and Bobby Floyd (B3, p) adds the soul on six of the ten selections. Sharon Hendrix sings on “Seek and Ye Shall Find”, the sole vocal track. We also enjoyed “Sing Me Softly Of the Blues” and “Cape Verdean Blues”. There is a happening pulse that weaves it’s way through the entire set making this one hum!
Publicist: D. L. Media