Esperanza Spalding-Chamber Music Society (2010) (Borders-carcass pick)
v.
Abigail Washburn-City of Refuge (2011) (Borders-carcass pick)
This is another tough draw, but for a different reason. Both these records have some flaws to my ears. The nod goes to Abigail Washburn. Notes on Chamber Music Society:
I had a feeling that the record company would start to change what makes Espe's first CD so great. There are some really strong tracks, but too much filler. She's a great bass player, but only one of the solos really caught my ear. Not recommended, but download "Wild is the Wind". An album of tracks like that one would have been really special.
Dexter Gordon-Dexter Calling (1963) (Borders carcass pick)
v.
Geoffery Keezer-Falling Up (2003) (Jazz Record Mart-retail)
Twice here in the first round I'm going against Paul Chambers on bass. Dexter calling is great, but there's not a lot new here. Most of the tunes are at the same tempo/same groove. I love Dexter's playing, love the whole band, but just not enough to continue on to the next round. Nod goes to Keez. Dexter Calling is a record everybody should search out though.
Joe Lovano Us Five-Folk Art (2009) (Borders carcass pick
v.
Sarah Jarosz-Follow Me Down (2011) (Gift)
I really just don't "get" Joe Lovano. I liked what I heard of this bands current release, but this record is not that one. James Wiedman plays his can off on this record. Get it if you're a fan of his playing. Otherwise I think you can skip it. Espe plays bass on this too, and proves that she's a well rounded musician who's going to be doing great playing for years to come. Sarah Jarosz goes to second round.
The Limited Edition Big Band-For The Love of Music (not dated) (Promo)
v
Yo Yo Ma-The Goat Rodeo Sessions-(2011) (Label Website)
Robot Chicken has a bit called "One-sided fights caught on tape" That applies here. Many friends of mine play in Ltd Ed., and I'm the former bass player. Hard to be objective here, but the swing is too shuffly, the ensemble is tight, but the rhythym section and soloists don't keep up.
Christian McBride Big Band-The Good Feeling (2011) (Label Website)
v.
Dave Holland & Pepe Hachibuela-Hands (2010) (Borders Carcass Pick)
Really thought I'd give this to McBride, but Dave and Pepe created some real magic. McBride side is very strongly recommended. The writing style is a bit chameleon-like, influences are clearly heard and the style changes from track to track. Interested to hear more of McBrides writing for a large ensemble like this. Plenty of bass pyryotechnics on this side too.
Gretchen Parlato-In A Dream (2009) (Borders Carcass Pick)
v.
Darcy James Argue's Secret Society-Infernal Machines (2009) (Label Website)
When I say carcass pick, it was the last day at this borders. 10 cents on the dollar. I think I spent $1.60 on Gretchen's record and it's the best $1.60 I've ever spent. Love this record, and such an individual voice. Unfortunately against the individual voice of Darcy, I've got to go with Darcy here. I'm not familiar with bassist Derek Hodge, but he plays a great supporting role throughout this side. Very highly recommended
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