Denson, Karl
Relaxed, 2003, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 9.3
Jazz Ruler Type: funk
Performance: 5
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Karl’s (sax, vocals) Tiny Universe includes a strong rhythm section including David Veith (rhodes, organ), Mike Dillon (perc, vibes) and a large dose of funk. They open with interleaved sax and trumpet (Chris Littlefield) melodies on top of a well-pronounced beat from Ron Johnson (b) and Zak Najor (d). Denson’s vocals and the solid bass line compliment the subtle reggae of “Because Of Her Beauty”. “The Answer” is straight up funky, cool! That is track #3 and it stays strong through the final cut “Elephants”, another flowing jam with a Caribbean/reggae feel. This is a sure winner.
