Album Review: This Could Be The Start from Linda Purl

Album:  The Sounds around the House
Artist:  Jeff Ellwood
Label:  Self-Released
Website:  www.Jeffellwood.net

The Sounds Around the House, the new release from tenor saxophonist and bandleader Jeff Ellwood is precisely what it says it is -- music that people can enjoy listening to around their home.  Sedate on the senses, soothing to the mind, and meditative for the spirit, the recording nurtures the intangible parts of human beings.

Replicating the effects of a light cocktail, "Provence," written by Rick Margitza, satisfies one's thirst for lucent libation. The mellow sonorous of the title track is sowed by the pacifying phrasing of Alan Pasqua's piano keys and Ellwood's tenor sax softly dripping with refined wails.  "Old School Blues" changes the course and springs on the listener a jumping blues platter, fashioned by Ellwood's percolating tweets on the tenor and the funky thrusts of Darek Oles' bass and Joe LaBarbera's drumming.

"King Henry," penned by Dick Oattes, features the whipping flares of Bob Sheppard's tenor sax, flapping buoyantly and spinning a series of twirling patterns as the rhythm section maintains a steady support.  The swinging furls of Ellwood's sax surging briskly across "The Honeymoon" propel the uplifting mood while changing to a somber glow across "For Roger," a Joe Bagg tune that showcases Ellwood's perceptible mind, depicting a reflective longing relatable to the human voice.  The composition is dedicated to Roger Shew, a bass player and dear friend of Ellwood's.

A native of Southern California, Jeff Ellwood focuses on creating harmony between his saxophone and his band mates even as he goes off on tangents and into vast excursions.  The compositions are underpinned by melodic forms that are calming on the senses, soothing to the mind, and nurturing for the soul.

Musicians:
Jeff Ellwood - tenor saxophone
Alan Pasqua - piano
Darek Oles - bass
Joe LaBarbera - drums
Bob Shepphard - tenor saxophone on "King Henry"