English clarinet player
Brian Carrick and his countrymen pay tribute to New Orleans jazz legend Kid Thomas Valentine by borrowing the name of that venerable trumpet player's group, the Algiers Stompers, for 70 minutes of traditional New Orleans jazz. Algiers, now absorbed into New Orleans, was once a separate city with its own tradition, and Kid Thomas Valentine had an important role in shaping the musical portion of that folklore. Alternating between exuberance, gentle swing, and poignancy, Carrick's group respectfully lend their talents to 17 tunes that run the gamut from familiar New Orleans tunes such as "Mama Inez" to those not normally associated with New Orleans, such as "Springtime in the Rockies." Irrespective of the song, however, every cut has the feel of traditional jazz about it. Although Carrick is nominal leader, it's the trombone of Chas Hudson that makes off with the session. If a trombone can be sweet, Hudson comes as close as you can get on "Springtime in the Rockies." Similarly, the talking trombone opening to "Love Letters in the Sand" lays down the course for everyone who follows. Muted trumpet by Derek Winters helps make this track one of the album's favorites. Hudson and Carrick play off of each other on "I Don't See Me in Your Eyes Anymore." Recognizing the important role old-time religion played in New Orleans music, "Pass Me Not Oh Gentle Saviour" made the play list. Everyone has a lot of fun with "It's Only a Paper Moon," with Carrick's clarinet playing counter to the melody line carried by Winters. These exceptional musicians from across the ocean are further evidence why New Orleans jazz will likely live as long as jazz is played anywhere. Recommended. ~ Dave Nathan