Chris
Potter has been a major player on the modern jazz scene since the late 80’s,
when he was an 18 year old prodigy playing in bebop bands. Since that time he
has done it all, playing on Steely Dan releases; backing Dave Holland on the
2002 Grammy winner What Goes Around;
and performing with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, and John
Scofield.
The Sirens is his first CD release
leading his own ensemble, with Craig Taborn on piano; David Virelles on piano,
celeste, and harmonium; Larry Grenadier on bass; and Eric Harland on drums. All
talented and respected players.
Potter got the idea for the music from going back and rereading a
classic. “I’d re-read The Odyssey after many years and was inspired to write
music with that epic, mythic mood in mind.”
And
just like The Odyssey, the CD is
filled with music that range over a variety of emotions and moods. Some of it
sounds like a soundtrack to a 50’s detective movie, at other times it sounds as
romantic as jazz can be. All nine cuts on the CD feature Potter’s distinctive
sax sound, smooth with a touch of bop to it at times, and he gives enough room
for the members of the band all to shine too. You don’t have to be a fan of ancient mythology to enjoy the
album.
Chris
Potter will be playing selections from The
Sirens, as well as from all aspects of his career, this Saturday at the
Lakeland Jazz Festival. This years festival also features Cleveland’s own Jamey
Haddad and his Trio on Friday night, and the Lakeland Community College and
Cleveland State University Jazz Bands on Sunday.
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