Acute Inflections, The Brave Review
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The pairing of bassist, Sadiki Pierre and vocalist, Elasea Douglas (Acute Inflections) was a providential joining of efforts that has blossomed into one of the busiest duo’s in New York City. Pierre’s background traverses an interesting story of freedom of expression, also inertly obvious was his acute propensity for the upright bass. Though a detour of pursuing a professional pilot career ended up taking a 10-year hiatus, his thirst for music panged away at his heart strings and ultimately drove him back to jazz, and straight to Douglas, who also has enjoyed a vibrant and diverse career in the arts. With stints in dance productions, off Broadway and her debut as part of the original cast of the Tony Award winning show, FELA! Douglas was equally thirsting for freedom of expression within the creativity of jazz. Their self-released debut offering The Brave would prove such a vehicle. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Pierre’s focused and tonally warm bass, supports and enhances the beauty within Douglas dulcet toned vocals.
Bottom Line:
The Brave accesses the popularity of secular tunes like, “Latch,” and “Kiss,” and “Back to Black,” while paying homage to classic jazz selections “L-O-V-E,” and “Over the Rainbow,” with classic elegance and panache. Of particular note is the tune “The Brave,” an original titled tune fashioned as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Douglas is reverent and impassioned; her command vocally takes this classic American tune to new heights. Pierre darkens the hue with elongated lines that allow Douglas to freely soar above the implied melody. Together, they have created a moving rendition of originality and lasting impression. The Brave is an adventurous outing, that celebrates the most exposed instrumentation to reveal its truest beauty.