Product Review

Whether you are an every - day listener or an avid jazz fan, the Christian McBride Trio's new record, "Out Here" (Mack Avenue Records,) is a tasteful and enjoyable album in every regard. Headed by bass virtuoso and jazz giant Christian McBride along with his two younger counterparts, pianist Christian Sands and drummer Ulysses Owens, both in their late 20's, the trio's elegant and swinging selections are steeped in tradition yet bring with them a refreshing quality given the members' young ages. Combining both originals as well as compositions of influential artists to the members of the trio, "Out Here" provides a glimpse into the musical history of McBride and his band mates as well as a vivid and transcending listening experience as a whole. The record opens with McBride's "Ham Hocks and Cabbage," a straight ahead, "no nonsense" blues that will have even the most inexperienced jazz listener dancing in their seat. Sands's melodic and carefully - placed runs and flurries sit atop McBride's pounding bass lines and Owens's classic yet signature swing groove; three distinct voices playing in unison and creating a feel - good experience for the listener. McBride's other compositions, such as "I Guess I'll Have to Forget" and "I Have Dreamed"  both present a different flavor to the record; a relaxing break from the warm and blues - drenched characteristic that is prevalent throughout the rest of the records. "Easy Walker," written by Sands's mentor, hero, and jazz icon Dr. Billy Taylor, is a less well known gem that makes an appearance on the record as well. Serving as a tribute to a man that played a significant role in his musical development, the track is particularly special due to Sands's authentic yet new-age approach, developing after studying with modern piano greats such as Vijay Iyer and Jason Moran. Ending with McBride's arrangement of Johnny Taylor's Motown hit "Whose Makin' Love," the trio leaves the listener on a funky note, bringing in a new element on top of all of the incredible music taking place on previous tracks as well. Overall, "Out Here" is certainly recommended for anybody curious to listen. The record brings forth some of the most skilled and creative playing on the jazz scene today, in a manner that is truly for the people. In a musical world that is always moving forward, for better or worse, "Out Here" takes a step back in acknowledging what has come before us, doing it at the highest level possible. If you would like to hear some of the present - day pioneers in jazz music and grab a record to lift your mood and make you simply feel good, "Out Here" by the Christian McBride trio is the way to go.

"Almost Home" Blog #2

Almost Home by Tina Kelley is reaching a very vivid and turbulent point in Paulie's story. In the beginning, Paulie describes his adventures fishing with his father, before he abandoned him and his mother, catching rainbow trout and trolling for salmon in the Kenai River. However, the reminiscent and somewhat nostalgic mood is quickly broken when a fight breaks out between him and his father. Kelley describes the fight in somewhat disturbing detail; "But his father pinned him against the wall in front of the dining cabinet, his hand around his son's throat. Then, suddenly, he dropped Paulie and left the room, returning moments later with a gun."
Unfortunately, this violence is a typical occurrence in Paulie's life given his abusive father and underprivileged family circumstance. I am curious to see how his relationship with the father will manifest itself, and if the dad admits and realizes his faults and returns to the family with a fresh outlook.