Roy Hargrove: I'm Not So Sure
Musicians:
Roy Hargrove (trumpet), Justin Robinson (alto sax), Gerald Clayton (piano), Danton Boller (bass), Montez Coleman (drums).
Recorded: Los Angeles, September 19-21, 2007
Rating: 89/100 (learn more)
Gerald Clayton introduces this track with a funky burst of solo piano that gives the whole band an inspiring kick in the pants. Horns enter in a tasty hard-bop mood, and Hargrove dishes out a fiery solo that contrasts nicely with the muted dynamics from the rhythm section. Midway through Robinson's sax solo, the comping moves into higher gear -- if this were a live recording, I would expect shouts of encouragement from the fans at this stage. The pacing is perfect, and the band plays with intensity and control throughout. Hargrove is one of our most versatile improvisers, but it is a particular delight to hear him in a soulful setting such as this opening track from his Earfood CD.
Reviewer: Ted Gioia
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1 response so far
This is my favorite CD of the year, and "I'm Not Sure" is one of my favorite tracks on the disc. It's smoking hot and the musicians hit everything perfectly. However, it's not the best song on the disc. That would be the electrifying "Strasbourg/St. Denis" with its intertwine horn play.