Cory Weeds meets Jerry Weldon
Cory Weeds; Jerry Weldon
Cellar Music CMF102704 (coryweeds.bandcamp.com/album/cory-weeds-meets-jerry-weldon)
In a fast-paced world where we are constantly bombarded and pressured to keep up with the latest trends and objects, renowned saxophonist and bandleader Cory Weeds’ latest release is a reminder to slow our pace down and “stop and smell the roses,” if you will. The album harks back to the classic swing era with a fresh twist, embodying the idea of honouring the classics in an era where “newness” constantly wants to take over. Weeds has gathered a group of famed musicians for these recordings, namely fellow tenor saxophonist Jerry Weldon, pianist Miles Black, bassist John Lee and drummer Jesse Cahill.
What captures the attention of the listener right from the first note are the dual saxophone lines, a unique aspect of the album that pays tribute to “seminal tenor-battle recordings of the past.” The record starts off with the tune Hey Lock, where the listener is treated to a driving drum rhythm, swinging piano chords and the intertwining tenor melodies of Weeds and Weldon. Taking the tempo down for Just As Though You Were Here, a well-known tune by jazz pianist John Benson Brooks, the lyrical and mellow qualities of Weeds’ skilled playing are showcased. The album features a collection of jazz greats, ending with the bandleader’s own composition 323 Shuter.
A perfect accompaniment for soon to be chillier fall days, this is a worthy addition to any jazz aficionado’s collection.
