Sean Jones
Written by: Ginger Dee
What to Listen for in Jazz Music
Sean Jones.....Kaleidoscope (Mack Avenue Records)
Trumpeter
Sean Jones, is a Composer, Professor of Jazz Studies and lead trumpet with
the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra – and his fourth release is on the Mack
Avenue Label entitled “Kaleidoscope”. This young lion was first
introduced to us in 2004 (at the age of 25) on his debut release “Eternal
Journey”. He sets the standard for the next generation of jazz musicians
and he delivers on his first “vocally inspired” release “Kaleidoscope”.
Produced by pianist extraordinaire, Orrin Evans, Kaleidoscope begins with the
smoothly effervescent “Allison” reminiscent of the 70’s fusion jazz
era but mellowed down. Vocalist JD Walter chants a wordless line underneath
Jones’ serenade, setting us up for what’s to come. JD is also featured on my
personal favorite “So Wonderful” – a Steely Dan- esque tune. He
introduces Gretchen Parlato on “Journey” and allows her to explore
the medley on her own through-out this vocally intriguing cut.
Sean brilliantly duets with who I believe to be JD Walter on “Never
Let Me Go” – scatting with this incredible vocalists throughout. Jones’
gospel roots pull at your heart strings on the tunes “I Come To Thee”
and “You’re the Reason” featuring the raspy and powerful vocals of
world-renowned gospel artist, Kim Burrell. There are other stand-outs
featuring the vocals of Carolyn Perteete and Sachal Vasandani.
Sean delivers on what other successful leaders do well by spot-lighting his
touring band – Orrin Evans on piano, Brian Hogans on alto sax, flute and
Fender Rhodes, Obed Calvaire – drummer and percussionist, Luques Curtis on
acoustic bass and Walter Smith III on tenor sax. Apparent on “The Sluice”,
the quintet take us a on a journey of complex arrangements – swinging hard
through and through.
Bravo! This is one for the collection. “Kaleidoscope” hits the stores on
August 14, 2007.
Sean Jones was one of the featured trumpeters with the Wynton Marsalis Lincoln
Jazz Center Orchestra during the 2007 North Sea Jazz Festival
line-up.
Respectfully submitted by
Ginger Dee
Sean Jones’ music can be heard at
www.myspace.com/seanjonesjazz or his website at
www.seanjonesmusic.com
www.myspace.com/gingerdee