Rating:
Genre:
Jazz
Release Date: 07/10/2007
Run Time: 70:22
For veteran California saxophonist
Ernie Watts, here is another example of why he is one of the finest exponents of modern
jazz going. This CD is one in a long line, pre-and-post his work with
Charlie Haden's Quartet West, that identifies him as an individualist. Since his sound on tenor so closely mirrors
Michael Brecker's, and they are peers, the question will always be -- who came first, and who influenced who? Clearly
John Coltrane's muse is extant in both, and they have developed personal voices.
Analog Man succeeds on different levels.
François Moutin's
"Clinton Parkview" is a fresh
neo-bop piece with effortless, attractive rhythm changes. On soprano sax, of which
Watts is an underrated giant, he displays flawless tone, technique, and unlimited sweetness on the
modal "Paseando." The California band of
Watts, not well known names nationally, acquit themselves well during the date, especially pianist
Christof Saenger, who penned
"Paseando." "Gee Baby," one of five
Watts originals, shows a
blues-jazz sensibility, the band swings hard on the
Miles Davis/
Victor Feldman hard bopper
"Joshua," and he is masterful on the
"My Special Angel" flavored ballad
"Company." The first two tracks are really long, and may not have been the best lead-off numbers. The
"Killer Joe" like easy swinging title track and
Brecker-ish neo-bopper
"Elements" could have been programmed later in the disc. It is a strong effort, not his best, but adds to the remarkable consistency
Watts has enjoyed over his four decade career, and continues to maintain. This CD won the Independent Music Awards Best Jazz CD for 2007.
~Michael G. Nastos, All Music Guide
;)
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