At the Pub Molson stage last night, saxophonist Melissa Aldana delivered a performance that firmly established her as one of the leading saxophonists of her generation. Playing selections from her latest album, Echoes Of The Inner Prophet (2024), the evening showcased Aldana’s evolving artistry and her remarkable ability to channel profound emotion through her music, no matter how complex the underlying form.
From the moment she took to the stage, it was clear that the audience was in for something special. Her tenor saxophone playing was both assured and immensely expressive, displaying a maturity and depth that belied her age. The concert opened with the esoteric number “The Solitary Seeker”, whose enigmatic harmonies were gracefully navigated by the band, inviting the audience into Aldana’s introspective and richly textured musical world. There was a certain spirituality in the Chilean saxophonist’s playing, and you didn’t have to be a musician to appreciate it. The crowd responded enthusiastically to Aldana’s music, adding to the energy of the band, which included pianist Glenn Zaleski, drummer Kush Abadey and bassist Pablo Menares.
Their interplay was spot-on, with each musician contributing to a coherent, dynamic collective sound. Zaleski was in top form, elevating the compositions with his solos. Melissa Aldana is more than just a saxophonist; she’s also a conductor and composer. Her talent for creating tunes that foster a four-way conversation, where each voice is heard and valued, was commendable and a pleasure to behold.
photo: YouTube page of Serendignity
