Spirituals & Dedications is a nod to a period in music's history when jazz reflected a strong connection to the church and its musical repertoire. This modern interpretation of the beauty and simplicity of the traditional hymn is brought to life by an eclectic collaboration among
Jane Bunnett,
Stanley Cowell,
Larry Cramer,
Mark McLean,
Kieran Overs, and
Dewey Redman. Together they perform the music of
Rahsaan Roland Kirk,
Charles Mingus, as well as several original compositions by members of the collective. Saxophonist
Jane Bunnett has composed a remarkable tribute to pianist
Don Pullen with "Don's Light," a slow, tranquil church mode that reflects the strong connection to the natural spirituality of the piano's white keys as played by
Stanley Cowell and the gospel-tinged voice of
Dean Bowman. "A Laugh for Rory" has an ingenious arrangement featuring
Bunnett on flute and
Dewey Redman on tenor saxophone with mutual impact by bassist
Kieran Overs and
Mark McLean on drums. The doctrine of effects is clearly present on this recording. For those seeking a different musical perspective on traditional hymns and the relationship between spirituality and emotions or jazz and gospel, look no further. ~ Paula Edelstein