"What Harrell [does] is spin out improvisational lines filled with instant melodies. Like a lyricist who illuminates phrases with subtle internal rhymes, Harrell's soloing captivates both the hearts and the minds of his listeners."
The Los Angeles Times
A salient constant in Tom Harrell's career has been his commitment to advancing his artistry. Recording as a leader since 1976, he has racked up numerous jazz magazine awards, such as top composer and trumpeter, "best jazz album of the year" by Entertainment Weekly, and a Grammy nomination. On his latest HighNote album, the trumpeter-bandleader-composer-arranger continues to evolve with aplomb. In realizing his ideas, spun on singular chord changes and stunning melodic hooks, improvisation and composed movements, he seems to have chosen the best of bands. Tenor saxophonist Wayne Escoffery unfurls voicings that offer contrasting tones and textures to the horn master's efforts. Bassist Ugonna Okegwo is solid, picking up on nuances of the themes with ease. Danny Grissett sparkles on piano and Fender Rhodes. Johnathan Blake rides and crashes confidently. Hear why Phil Woods called Tom Harrell, "the best musician I've ever encountered in 40 years of playing!"
With: Tom Harrell, trumpet & flugelhorn; Wayne Escoffery, soprano & tenor saxophones; Danny Grissett, piano & Fender Rhodes; Ugonna Okegwo, bass; Johnathan Blake, drums
Tracks: Marching; Prana; Sequenza; Maharaja; The Call; Ride; The Sea Serpent; In the Infinite
