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Theo Travis Featuring Palle Mikkelborg Heart of the Sun Release Date: 2001 09 03 Label: Thirtythreerecords If there were a jazz stylistic category called "mysterious," that would be a good place to slot this album by U.S. composer/saxophonist Theo Travis. Not that his works are uncomprehensible. It's just that sometimes they are not what they seem to be. "That Old Smile" is not a musical image of a nice person with a pleasant, "you can trust me" smile. The tune starts out like that, with the Travis' sax and David Gordon's piano carrying the major thematic load. Then it turns dissonant altering the grin making it a dangerous enticement. "Northern Lights," with Swedish trumpet icon and Travis guest, Palle Mikkelborg working in and around the middle register, recalling Miles Davis modal music period. The titles of Travis tunes are like a small guessing game. His "Bass Rock" has nothing to do with rock music. What it describes is the steadfastness (for more than 16 minutes) of Stefan Weeke's bass supporting Travis' meandering tenor sax as he moves from one cadence to another. Like his last album for the 33Jazz label, Travis includes one tune not written by him. This time it's a standard "Here's That Rainy Day," staying within the rather murky framework the leader has established for this session. The track starts with the sound of rain as David Gordon's tinkling piano makes one want to reach for the umbrella. Both Travis and Mikkelborg, this time on flugelhorn, are understated providing a wide view of the musical landscape. Travis' sax takes something from Stan Getz, Ernie Waits, and John Coltrane to form the underpinnings for his unique sound. This album is filled with rich, intense harmonics, interesting original works, and excellent playing, and is highly recommended. Dave Nathan, All Music Guide Tracks: Title Composer Time 1 All I Know Travis 6:57 2 Northern Lights Travis 5:53 3 Fast Life Travis 5:16 4 Barking Dogs and Caravans Travis 8:42 5 Here's That Rainy Day Burke, VanHeusen 5:43 6 That Old Smile Travis 8:26 7 Last Flight from Twinwood Travis 5:39 8 Bass Rock Travis 16:41 Releases: Year Type Label 2001 CD Thirtythreerecords 2001 CD 33Jazz Records

Member Of: Soft Machine Legacy More >> Similar Artists: Jeff Beal Steve Lacy John Coltrane Steve Tavaglione More >>

Influenced By: The Beatles Pink Floyd Stan Getz King Crimson Elvin Jones More >>

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