James Austin, Jr, Songs in the Key of Wonder Review
Connect with James Austin: Facebook
Pianist James Austin, Jr. is originally from Chicago, an accomplished pianist and bandleader. He studied under the direction of a number of legendary musicians, including renowned jazz educator, Barry Harris. James received the honor of being selected as a semi-finalist in the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano competition. He recently served as pianist and arranger for two star-studded concerts at Carnegie Hall under the baton of esteemed musical director, Ray Chew. He has curated and led the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) Jazz Jam series since its inception. For the past couple of years, he has also served as musical director for jazz phenom Miss Alexis Morrast. All of this hard work has culminated into his debut offering that features a firm focus on the legendary artist Stevie Wonder, aptly title Songs in the Key of Wonder. Joined by a lineup of jazz’s modern-day lions: Bobby Broom: guitar; Jarrard Harris: alto sax; Joe Magnarelli: trumpet; Ben Rubens: bass; Samuel Torres: percussion; Kobie Watkins: drums and David Williams on bass.
Positives:
Austin has created a collection of Wonder’s slam dunk hits. Tastefully executed its not just a pablum regurgitation, but a stylish homage to the great songwriting of Wonder and how his tunes are lent easily to the jazz genres.
Bottom Line:
The ensemble has a solid chemistry that is interactive, yet respectful each player adds to the overall elegance and stylishness of the tunes. Austin colorizes with beauty and well-chosen ideas that supplement, yet compliment Wonder’s compositions. Joined by an equally apt set of players, Austin takes the ensemble through a tasteful program, all the while maintaining the beauty of the compositions by honoring Wonder’s masterful pen yet updating it in a way that is accessible and musical. There is nothing more pleasing than well-conceived jazz arrangements of your favorite secular tunes. Austin has created a worthy addition to the fabric of Wonder tribute albums. Tackling such an icon can be a risky choice, but Austin and bandmates keep it classy and offer the listener memorable performances that add up to a winning listen. That’s the short of it!