On
Walkin' the Line, the second release by
the New Jazz Composers Octet, trumpeter
David Weiss, who also serves as the cooperative band's spokesperson, is joined by original members
Xavier Davis on piano, alto saxophonist
Myron Walden, drummer
Nasheet Waits, bassist
Dwayne Burno, and trombonist
Steve Davis on a program of original songs and one outstanding cover. The guest artists: tenor/soprano saxophonist
Jimmy Greene, Andrew Williams, and Chris Karlic are joined by two honorary members --
Craig Handy and
Joe Chambers -- who both lend their outstanding expertise on saxophones and drums, respectively. The ensemble performs a melodically beautiful and harmonically complex program of seven songs, all of which were written by members of
the New Jazz Composers Octet. Beginning with "Deadweight," a modern, propulsive composition, the ensemble moves from a densely orchestrated opening theme into provocative solos by
David Weiss,
Myron Walden, and
Nasheet Waits. Toward the end of the program, a rearranged
Chick Corea gem titled "Inner Space" is given new life with an outstanding performance by
Xavier Davis on piano and
Jimmy Greene on tenor saxophone. When compared to their debut,
First Steps Into Reality, listeners will recognize the superb musical growth of the ensemble and indeed realize the reality of the stretch. This is an excellent recording and one that should be in every jazz collection that specializes in fresh sounds by new talent. ~ Paula Edelstein