Carn Davidson 9 – Reverence

This is great jazz music! Carn Davidson 9 (there are 9 of them) hail from Toronto and offer us a series of original compositions with diverse accents (Funk, Bossa, Post Bop, Samba, etc.) but bound together by a vibrant sense of rhythm and complex writing that still manages to be super-catchy. I particularly like the straightforward melodic structures (Florencio, a magnificent lyrical rhumba), though open to occasional joyous harmonic delirium (Groove for Joshua). The saxophone of Dick Oatts also makes a fine presence in the first piece, dedicated to him, with its fleshy sound and inspired solos. And then, elsewhere, Shirantha Beddage’s baritone, with its fat, rolling bass, is a delight. As well as playing like accomplished virtuosos, both in groups and in their solo improvs, the members of this elite band, led by Tara Davidson and William Carn, also take the liberty of singing in chorus (as in the irresistible samba Saudé, which is absolutely brilliant!) With the exception of one or two softer sections, the programme as a whole is characterised by a driving energy that sweeps you along in its solar whirlwind. Add impeccably honed ensemble playing, and instrumentalists of the highest technical calibre, and you have a remarkable album. There are only 9 of them, but it seems there are many more. Take note of their names, they deserve anything but anonymity: 

Tara Davidson – Alto Sax, Flute, Vocals (3)

Kelly Jefferson – Tenor Sax & Clarinet

Shirantha Beddage – Bari Sax & Bass Clarinet

Jason Logue – Trumpet

Kevin Turcotte – Trumpet

William Carn – Trombone, Vocals (3)

Christian Overton – Bass Trombone

Andrew Downing – Acoustic Bass

Ernesto Cervini – Drums

Apparition : 

Dick Oatts – Alto Saxophone (1)

Mark Kelso – Percussion (4)