Benjamin, Lakecia
Motema, 2023, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 29.1
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 74
O’s Notes: Jazz saxophonist, composer Lakecia Benjamin assembles a strong cast of musicians including Victor Gould (keyboards) and E.J. Strickland (d) with appearances from many special guests for her latest album, Phoenix produced by Terri Lyne Carrington. Most of the music is jazz-fusion with dabs of hard bop. Dianne Reeves sings “Mercy”, Patrice Rushen graces the keys on “Jubilation”, and Angela Davis adds spoken word on “Amerikkan Skin”. We also enjoyed “Trane” and “Moods, both leaning towards a straight-ahead groove. Benjamin explodes across the entire landscape asserting her prowess and engaging her noble accompaniment.
Publicist: Lydia Liebman Promotions
