Search - Gregory Tardy :: The Hidden Light

For his sophomore release, Gregory Tardy is on an elation kick. From the title of the CD and seven of its tunes, the tenor saxophonist makes his spiritual commitment evident. From the playing, it's additionally clear that he views spirituality as John Coltrane did: as something that can trigger and enhance musical creativity. Tardy's tunes have an urgency, from the intricate bossa strains of the title track to the snaking, quick line of "The Living Hope" and the funky clip of "Educated Freedom." He brings fellow New Orleans native Nicholas Payton on board for key cuts and unpacks a range that covers yearning, groove, fierceness, and intimacy in turn. The band is powered by drummer Eric Harland, bassist Sean Conly, and pianist Xavier Davis, all of whom serve as ideal resonators, carrying Tardy to the flame when he's nearly burning and helping calm when he's getting smoky, as on "The Night Traveler," where Tardy troubles his intonation to great effect. Hearing Hidden Light, it's no mystery why trumpeter Dave Douglas enlists Tardy for his Soul on Soul band; pianist Andrew Hill has him in employ, as well. He plays with versatile strengths as a balladeer, a hard-charging soul churner, and an altitude-reaching explorer. --Andrew Bartlett