I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Ramon, from Christopher McBride, and it's really moves. Opening with Lady D, dedicated to McBride's mother, this track features excellent trumpet lead by JS Williams, Jonathan Edward Thomas on piano and McBride on sax. Backed by Noah Jackson on bass, Cedric Easton on on drums. Excellent opener. Bronx Unchained has a urban syncopation with McBride and Williams working together against the groove yet a sophisticated attack. Thomas' piano work really hits the spot and then in double time Williams' trumpet lead is fleet and McBride's solo intense with an excellent chaser by Easton on drums. Stand Your Ground is a contemplative, 3 part composition. Opening with Jackson setting the scene on bass, the track slowly builds with Williams on trumpet, McBride on sax, Thomas on piano and Easton on drums. In the "Confrontation" segment, Williams and McBride really work it driving the track to an exhilarating frenzy, settling finally into a beautiful "In Memoriam" melody with lush backing by Thomas and and luke Carlos O'Reiley on keys and strong phrasing by McBride on sax. Very nice. Neo soul, Dope, with it's street beat has a contemporary pop feel with melodic setup by Williams and Corey Wallace on trombone and McBride, Williams and Thomas each weaving in lush solos. Wrapping the release is my radio choice for the release Your Eyes Can't Lie. With Williams and McBride carrying the melody and harmony lead and Easton on tom tom. With a inviting bass line by Jackson keeping the feel, Williams takes the first run and his feel is terrific. Thomas on piano keeps the flow and adds some real nice color, a strong solo by Jackson on bass feeds directly to McBride who elaborates on the melody, cranking up the tension. This is a very enjoyable release and one that I'm looking forward to taking home for a full test run.
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