Justifiably J.J.
Summit, 2024
9/10
The trombone wizard John Fedchock pays tribute to the J.J. Johnson Centennial with this live album that recruits Steve Allee, Jeremy Allen and Sean Dobbins.
The frisky “Naptown U.S.A.” opens with Fedchock’s lively brass amid Allee’s lively keys for the dynamic delivery, and “Short Cake” follows with an emotive mood that uses Dobbins’ precise drums strategically.
The middle spot belongs to “Kenya”, where a cinematic quality unfolds via the meticulous drumming and energetic keys that are complemented by Allen’s playful bass, while “Say When” bops and shakes with an infectious demeanor via the animated rhythm section and Fedchock’s bright trombone.
Arriving near the end, the dreamy “Minor Mist” radiates much beauty and grace, and “Ten 85” exits with a meticulous collaboration between the quartet that emits a timeless jazz appeal.
The sound quality here is top notch and the execution is equally great. The set was captured at the Jazz Kitchen, in Indianapolis, where Johnson was born and died, and it certainly does justice to his legacy- from one trombone master to another.
Travels well with: Bevan Manson- Talking To Trees; Matt Booth- Sun Prints