Joey DeFrancesco, In The Key Of The Universe Review
Joey DeFrancesco is back with another soulful outing. The 4-time GRAMMY® nominee DeFrancesco checks in with organ, keyboard and trumpet; he joined by Pharoah Sander on tenor saxophone and vocals, Billy Hart on drums, Troy Roberts on saxophones and acoustic bass and Sammy Figueroa on percussion. The name of this adventurous new album is titled, In The Key Of The Universe. The album contains ten tracks that have innovative ways of exploring the profound connection DeFrancesco has with the devotional jazz of his forebears. Pulling from the inspiration of Pharaoh Sanders to John Coltrane to John McLaughlin. Although the theme is that of metaphysical jazz, it is fueled sonically by prodigious playing by all and the soul and deep respect for the jazz cannon is in abundance.
Positives:
DeFrancesco is the perfect blend of chops and soulfulness. His lines are astonishing in their complexity and power, but they always feel wonderful and pop with soulful personality.
Bottom Line:
In The Key Of The Universe is an outstanding date bringing together many sounds, styles and inspirations all under the umbrella of DeFrancesco’s melodic and soulful jazz style. Sanders and Roberts are wonderful together. Roberts especially has been making a joyful noise in recent years. (read our review of Roberts latest album <a href="https://staccatofy.com/jazz/troy-roberts-nu-jive-perspective-review/">HERE</a>). Highlights for us are: “Inner Being,” “Vibrations in Blue,” and “Awake and Blessed.” The latter finds DeFrancesco playing organ and keyboard in a vibrant and innovative manner over the up-tempo swing feel. Roberts’ interaction with Hart’s rhythms and DeFrancesco’s harmony is a fun listen and their musical conversation is of note. Of course, “The Creator Has a Master Plan” is at the core a historical and emotional statement by DeFrancesco. Sanders released the original in 1969 on his album, Karma (impulse! Records). Here Roberts switches to acoustic bass and Sanders takes us on a journey of spatial jazz that is emotive and impressive. Together this ensemble creates a meaningful and lasting piece in the universe of jazz. That’s the short of it!