Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Jesse Davis: First Insight
Jesse Davis: First Insight
BySome of the tunes float with a lyrical pleasantness: "Nola," "Midnight Blue," and "A Little R&R." Some of the tunes are driven with intensity: "Donkey Stomp," "J's Idea," and "B.Y.O.G." Bernstein joins the ensemble for six of the nine tracks, and his presence serves to add a softer timbre. Miller's expressive piano artistry is full of energy; his quirky portrayal on "Jetlagged" is a fine example of the variety he employs. Washington's drum set provides the spark and syncopation, while Carter's bass maintains the pulse; they share the spotlight with solos on "J's Idea" and "A Funny Thing" respectively. With lyrics including "I can't sing," Davis adds comic relief on "A Funny Thing," showing us his "everyman's" vocal talent.
The session allows a lot of time for improvised solo work from Davis, Miller and Bernstein, but because the compositions are well-crafted, it's much more than just a "blowing session." In the liner notes, Jesse Davis quotes Mulgrew Miller with an appropriate thought, "It's always nice to hear a musician who not only takes his time, but also has something to say." Recommended.
Track Listing
First Insight; Nola; A Little R & R; B.Y.O.G.; Midnight Blue; J's Idea; A Funny Thing; Jetlagged; Donkey Stomp (61:34).
Personnel
Jesse Davis
saxophone, altoJesse Davis, alto saxophone; Peter Bernstein (2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9), guitar; Mulgrew Miller, piano; Ron Carter, bass; Kenny Washington, drums.
Album information
Title: First Insight | Year Released: 1998 | Record Label: Concord Music Group
Comments
About Jesse Davis
Instrument: Saxophone, alto
Related Articles | Concerts | Albums | Photos | Similar To