Isms Out by Burton Greene & Roy Campbell Quartet

18 Jan

Written by Glenn Astarita
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This is one of those magical outings, where free-bop, avant-garde and straight-ahead jazz seamlessly coalesce into an undeniably harmonious set executed by forward thinking musical minds. Here, trumpeter Roy Campbell and pianist Burton Greene are on the money, as they say.

The quartet launches the proceedings with a delightful jazz waltz titled "Booker’s Lament." Featuring a catchy melody and lithe ensemble work, Campbell embeds a distinct edge into the grand scheme of things via his climactic phrasings and blaring tone. Nonetheless, Greene and Campbell generate a great deal of excitement throughout these generally exhilarating jaunts. On "Burty’s Boudoir Bump.... Bop," the band renders a Monk-style groove, spiced up with a few cosmic meltdowns along the way. In addition, Greene fuses rhythmic chop chords with quaint melodies during many of these pieces. Essentially, the band jubilantly embraces the outside realm of matters with intuitive dialogues and glistening crescendos.

Greene occasionally augments his scope of attack with classical overtones, often perked up with spacious improvisational forays and bubbly grooves. Meanwhile reverences are in order for drummer Lou Grassi and bassist Adam Lane’s driving structures and supple accompaniment.

The quartet transmits a brash outlook, periodically toned down with ambient interludes and affecting exchanges. Overall, it’s a heady, yet remarkably coherent production translating into a highly entertaining jazz album. The musicians’ strike a distinct balance that by most standards is not easily attainable. (Feverishly recommended.... )

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Burton Greene & Roy Campbell Quartet
CD Title: Isms Out
Genre: Free Jazz / Avante Garde
Year Released: 2005
Record Label: CIMP
Musicians: Burton Greene (piano), Roy Campbell (trumpets), Adam Lane (bass), Lou Grassi (drums)
Label Website: http://www.cadencebuilding.com
Rating: Four Stars