Bassist Gerald Cannon presents his first CD as a leader and it's a keeper. Joined by drummer Montez Coleman, alto saxophonist Sherman Irby, and pianist Rick Germansen, the self-titled recording features 11 songs, including five fresh compositions from Cannon's pen and two originals written by bandmates Irby and Germansen. These songs resonate alongside such priceless standards as "Our Love Is Here to Stay," "My One and Only Love," and "Secret Love." Cannon renews his spirit of discovery with a soulful rendering of the Carpenters' major hit, "Closet to You," on which he stimulates the listener's imagination and sense of jazz. His art is boundless as is his compositional integrity on such songs as "Little G's Walk,""Element's," and "Three Elders." The intensity of his concentration cannot be overstated. Cannon, who is widely known for his work with trumpeter Roy Hargrove and Alvin Hayes, demonstrates his world-class bass techniques throughout this set and commands your attention on each song with his impeccable bass voicings. Any way he works it, Gerald Cannon is always striving to maximize your acoustic bass pleasures, and truly brings his listeners an enjoyable first-class program with Gerald Cannon.
© Paula Edelstein /TiVo