Back East showcases saxophonist
Joshua Redman as he leads a few different trios through a cerebral and muscular set of originals and standards.
Redman has long evinced the influences of such similarly inclined legends as
Sonny Rollins,
Dexter Gordon, and
John Coltrane, and
Back East is no exception -- which isn't to say it's business as usual. Admittedly, while this is a straight-ahead acoustic jazz date, it is one ripe with creative energy that finds
Redman's knack for deeply thoughtful improvisation and unexpected rhythmic interplay in full flower. Recorded prior to the passing of
Redman's father, saxophonist
Dewey Redman, in 2006, the album is dedicated in his father's memory and not only features the elder
Redman alongside his son, but
Redman even gives him a solo turn on the last cut. Interestingly,
Back East finds
Redman ruminating on alternate meanings of the title: as in the "Back East" of cities like New York and Boston or as in Eastern philosophies and religious beliefs. This leads
Redman to myriad musical settings, including the funky swing of "The Surrey with the Fringe on Top" and the more raga-influenced and expansive post-bop of the original "Zarafah." Joining
Redman here is a cadre of top-notch rhythm players, including bassists
Larry Grenadier,
Reuben Rogers, and
Christian McBride; drummers Ali Jackson,
Brian Blade, and
Eric Harland; and saxophonists
Chris Cheek and
Joe Lovano. This CD was nominated in 2007 for a Grammy award as Best Jazz Instrumental Album (Individual or Group). ~ Matt Collar