Brian Landrus plays Ellington & Strayhorn
Brian Landus
Blue Land Records BL202301 (brianlandrus.com/albums/brian-landrus-plays-ellington-and-strayhorn-download)
There are precious few musicians who have the taste, skill and creative vision of low woodwind specialist Brian Landrus. With the release of his latest creation, not only has Landrus selected 14 sumptuous compositions from the immortal Duke Ellington and his frequent collaborator Billy Strayhorn, but he has also manifested his own embodiment of Ellington’s lush orchestral sound – replete with stunning arrangements featuring his performances on his cornucopia of instruments, including baritone and bass saxophones, bass and contra alto clarinets, piccolo, C melody as well as alto and bass flutes. Joining Landus here are noted guitarist Dave Stryker, accomplished bassist Jay Anderson and iconic drummer Billy Hart. This fine complement of collaborators (including two guest arrangers) accompany Landrus on his journey through some of the most complex compositions in the history of jazz.
The opener is the rarely performed Agra. Exotic percussion from Hart and mystical reed lines plumb the lower depths and also transport the listener into the outer stratosphere with perfectly placed, flute driven tonal clusters. An absolute standout is Chelsea Bridge. Composed by Strayhorn, this haunting melodic line floats through bop modalities and extended woodwind lines in contiguous synergy with a fine, swinging baritone solo. Also superb is A Flower is a Lovesome Thing, on which Stryker renders a moving guitar solo rife with sensitivity and intriguing harmonic choices, all the while substantiated by Anderson’s sonorous, satisfying bass lines. Also exceptional are the Bossa Nova infused Daydream, and the closer, Sophisticated Lady, which finds Landrus alone, with his unique bass saxophone interpretation.
Fine production, timelessness of the compositions, innovative arrangements and musicianship par excellence make this one of the most original and compelling jazz recordings of the year.
