Knowles, William & Mark Saltman
Pacific Coast, 2009, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 15.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Classic
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score:
O’s Notes: Bass man Mark Saltman and pianist William Knowles lead a fine band through ten original festive compositions. We got hooked on the Caribbean party spirit courtesy of the steel drums played by Victor Provost. They swing hard on “Blues For Sale” while “Shesh” pairs Provost with Brian Settles (sax) leading the mysterious Latin party tune. The third dimension comes from vocalist Lori Williams-Chisholm who adds lyrics, scats and vocalese with clear, rich tone. She stands out on “Yesterday’s Man” the title track. We also enjoyed “08 Bossa” with William and Doug Pierce (t, flugelhorn) making a splash and “Cry”. This sound is different and welcomed as a fresh voice in modern festive jazz.
Publicist: Pacific Coast Jazz