Search - Karl Denson :: Chunky Pecan Pie

Good early Denson joined with two jazz masters

Anthony R. Guarriello | Rutherfordton NC | 09/04/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This was in fact Karl Denson's record date but it appears under Dave Holland's name. Well anyway this is a nice straight ahead jazz album made by Denson in 1994 for the german record label Minor Music. To be honest the main reason I bought this disc was because of Denson being joined in a trio with the great bassist Dave holland & the killer drummer Jack Dejohnette who have recorded on hundreds of jazz sessions since the late sixties. So I was really curious to hear what would happen on this album because I think Denson is one of the great sax men of the 21st century. The tunes are mostly original compositions and a few covers, also guesting is James Brown sax man Pee Wee Ellis who appears on one track. All in all I think this album is good in small doses, not to say that it isn't good. I think the playing is great but the one area that lacks is Denson's original material in my mind lacks the spark to hold the listeners attention during most of the tracks extended excursions. Almost every song is close to ten minutes long and in my opinion get alittle long winded. Some of you may eat it up but I myself unless its a really inspired session opt for more of the short and sweet approach i.e around 5 minute tunes. Dave Holland sounds great on acoustic bass with his fat clear tone & impeccable intonation and Jack Dejohnette propels the groove nicely with his Tony Williams influenced drumming which is why Iv given the record a four star rating mostly because of the great playing on everyone's behalf. If your a fan of late 60s more free type jazz & Karl Densons sax playing & you can find this album cause its been discontinued then check it out."