Michael Jefry Stevens: For the Children
Track
For the Children
Artist
Michael Jefry Stevens (piano)
CD
For The Children (Cadence Jazz Records CJR1202)
Musicians:
Michael Jefry Stevens (piano), David Schnitter (tenor sax),
Dominic Duval (bass), Jay Rosen (drums)
.Composed by Michael Jefry Stevens
.Recorded: Brooklyn, NY, February 10, 1995
Rating: 87/100 (learn more)
With an opening line clearly borrowed from Monk's "'Round Midnight," this smoky ballad by Michael Jefry Stevens seems to lament a time past. For this 1995 session, the educator, thoughtful pianist and prolific composer of over 400 pieces had the good fortune to employ the underappreciated David Schnitter. A onetime Jazz Messenger, who held the saxophone chair longer than any of Art Blakey's more famous protégés, Schnitter has a wonderfully hazy sound that emulates the great Dexter Gordon in tone and delivery. Here Schnitter wrings great feeling from the low register, blowing in a measured melt and sprinkling his phrasing with arpeggios played with deliberate restraint to great effect. Stevens's own playing is both sensitive and pretty in conception and execution. His composition is a nice vehicle for Schnitter's tasteful playing and is worth the listen.
Reviewer: Ralph A. Miriello
Tags: 1990s jazz
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