Leo Wright's Atlantic debut,
Blues Shout, effectively summarizes his career as a sideman, embracing the expressionist sensibilities of longtime boss
Dizzy Gillespie as well as the Latin inspirations of longtime bandmate
Lalo Schifrin to create a fiercely modern and uncommonly impassioned sound all its own. Joined by pianist Junior Mance, trumpeter
Richard Williams, bassist Art Davis, and drummer
Charlie Persip,
Wright divides his attention between his signature alto sax and flute, delivering a series of thoughtful and lyrical solos that positively radiate energy. The blues referenced in the title are more a feeling than a sound, underscoring the emotional intensity that bristles below the surface of every note. ~ Jason Ankeny