Christian Scott: Anthem (Antediluvian Adaptation)
Musicians:
Christian Scott (cornet), Matt Stevens (guitar), Aaron Parks (piano), Luques Curtis (bass), Marcus Gilmore (drums).
Composed by Christian Scott
.Recorded: Berkeley, California, January 26-30, 2007
Rating: 90/100 (learn more)
Young, bold, and loquacious, New Orleans born trumpeter Christian Scott is a breath of fresh air to modern jazz. At a time when too many cookie-cutter groups fight for club dates, Scott is forging his own path, his hybrid compositions informed and influenced as much by hip-hop and indie rock as they are the jazz tradition. Anthem, his vociferous response to the social and political devastation left in Hurricane Katrina’s wake, is as emotive as it is edgy and is one of most thrilling records of recent years.
Do not be misled by the title "Anthem (Antediluvian Adaptation)" — this is not the quiet before the storm. Pianist Aaron Parks’ ferocious left-hand bombs and pulsating chords are intense and ominous, and Stevens’ distorted guitar moans enigmatically, relating more closely to Radiohead than Wes Montgomery. Scott sings out in long, airy tones on his cornet; over the explosive rhythm his plaintive, detached cries speak more than any flurry of notes ever could. Highly recommended.
Reviewer: Matt Leskovic
Tags: 2000s jazz · cornet
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