»There is a disarming generosity in his music,« wrote The New York Times of guitarist Julian Lage. That quality is particularly evident on his latest album, »Scenes from Above«. Although all the compositions originated with Lage, the music only assumed its final shape through close and trusting collaboration with his fellow quartet members. »I was never interested in presenting them with a piece that was finished from beginning to end,« says Julian Lage.
And the approach pays dividends – not least because bassist Jorge Roeder, drummer Kenny Wollesen and organist John Medeski, three of the finest jazz musicians of their generation, each bring a distinctive voice to this all-star quartet. The combination of guitar and Hammond organ evokes the gospel-infused soul jazz of the 1960s, enriched by driving funk grooves and Latin American dance rhythms. »Scenes from Above« is music that invites reflection and imagination, a masterful achievement by four kindred musicians who have found an exceptionally expressive sound together.
PERFORMERS
Julian Lage guitar
John Medeski Hammond organ
Jorge Roeder bass
Kenny Wollesen drums
PROGRAM
»Scenes from Above«
