The Absolute Sound, Issue 191

By Bill Milkowski

The New Jazz Composers Octet: The Turning Gate

David Weiss Producer.  Motema 00019.

New York trumpeter-arranger David Weiss has been on a mission to expose the talents of his gifted colleagues—pianist Xavier Davis, saxophonists Jimmy Greene, Myron Walden,  and Norbert Stachel, trombonist Steve Davis, bassist Dwayne Burno, and drummer Nasheet Waits.  In 1996, they formed the cooperative New Jazz Composers Octet to strut on disc and in concert.  The Turning Gate, the ensemble’s third album, is another intelligent post-modern gem that swings effortlessly as it incites with smart compositions, thoughtful arrangements, and dazzling solos.

The centerpiece is Davis’ “Faith Suite” –a six movement opus that ranges from the midtempo swnger “New” to the rhythmically charged “David and Goliath,” the harmonically lush fugue “Twilight,” and stormy “Panic.”  Weiss’ title track is a challenging exercise based on a cyclical theme that segues to a soulful walking bass groove.  And Walden’s “Onward” is a serene orchestrated piece.  Another treat is a spon-on arrangement of the eccentric “Bad Alchemy”, originally performed by British avant-rock group Henry Cow.

Sonically, The Turning Gate registers significant impact from the rhythm section while shining a light on individual soloists along the way.

Bill Milkoski

NJCO: Walkin’ the Line

Andrew Hill: Dusk