Joshua Redman is back with a new quartet and new album, Still Dreaming, which features Ron Miles on cornet, Scott Colley on bass and Brian Blade on drums. The four musically and emotionally explore the many connections between the band members and the group, Old and New Dreams, a group composed of tenor saxophone player Dewey Redman (Joshua’s father), bassist Charlie Haden, cornet player Don Cherry and drummer Ed Blackwell. There are six tracks penned by various members of the group and “Playing,” by Charlie Haden, and Ornet Coleman’s “Comme Il Faut.” The music is full of heritage, but still moves the sound and colors of the music to today’s jazz language and vitality. The chemistry between these players is top-shelf prominence, resulting in music that feels good, has a strong melodic flow and above all else, is played with an explorative spirit from the heart. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
A rich collection of feels, tempos, group improvisations and intense listening. The group certainly brings the influence of the many connections to Dewey Redman, Charlie Haden and the band Old and New Dreams, but in a manner that is musical and builds on the tradition.
Bottom Line:
Joshua Redman is one of the most imaginative, exciting, and focused saxophonists in the jazz world today. His vocabulary strikes the perfect blend of old and new, with a command of the altissimo register of the horn that is second to none. On Still Dreaming, Redman bring into focus his lineage and surrounds himself with the perfect players to bring out the musical connections. This is not just a homage album, but a body of work that shows the evolution of the music to the next generation and the influences of our world today. The musicians use the music and emotions to push themselves and result is excellent!