Allen, JD
Savant, 2017, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 23.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 3
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Saxophonist JD Allen is a musician in touch with the realities of current events. He extends from the deep, dark emotions of“Americana“(released in 2016 in a more welcoming political environment) to the rather volatile political scene of 2017.“Radio Flyer“is his latest endeavor, a bit more chaotic hard bop with generous doses of free improvisation quite different from the past recordings. It requires his band to be adept, spontaneous and adaptable. JD brings his polished trio with bassist Gregg August and drummer Rudy Royston adding guitarist Liberty Ellman to make a quartet. They are up to the task, dealing with Allen’s new music, an open structure that invites his team to step into the space and display their character. Highlights are “Heureux”, “Daedalus” and “Sancho Panza”, which are accessible, coherent and relevant even with the new, open approach.
Publicist: Jazz Depot
