Album Review: In Lieu of Flowers from Dave Anderson

 

Album:  In Lieu of Flowers
Artist:  Dave Anderson
Label:  LABEL 1 Records
Website:  www.daveandersonjazz.com


Smooth, cool jazz layered in flowing knolls and blues-infused motifs catacomb in incisions of improvised movements, In Lieu of Flowers from saxophonist/composer/leader Dave Anderson is a pleasurable jaunt.  His crew comprised of Grant Richards on piano, Lorin Cohen on bass, Jimmy Macbride on drums, and himself on saxophone sets out on engulfing the listener in harmonious riffs.   Each track exudes a nocturnal vibe conducive to after-hours respite.
 
The slow burn of Anderson's saxophone forms glistening cascades of teardrops along "Sanctuary" as Richards's piano solo etches dexterous scrolls across the track, creating a tender, reflective moment.  "Lost City" projects a dreamy vision in the listener's mind brandishing an evocative bass solo played by Cohen, while "One for Wayne," a tribute to Wayne Shorter, is fraught in lively saxophone ripples and twinkling keys, moving in improvised and complementing patterns.  There is an old-fashioned, straight-ahead jazz glint in the tracks integrated with a modern perspective that injects the compositions with life. 
 
The collection consists of Anderson's original material, honed over many years and inspired by the loss Anderson experienced, seeing people from his life pass away and those who have influenced him.   His performance is palpable, sharing what is in his heart with his audience.
 
Musicians:
Dave Anderson - saxophone
Grant Richards - piano
Lorin Cohen - bass
Jimmy Macbride - drums

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