It’s hard not to respect a guy that not only titles his latest album after a Bible verse, but has a Biblical reference to each of the 12 songs on this impressive post bop album. Anthony E. Nelson plays a husky Don Byas-flavored tenor sax and s sleek soprano in the company of Brandon McCune/p, Kenny Davis/b, Chris Beck/dr, Bruch Williams/as and Josh Evans/tp.
Nelson’s church upbringing pops up in a couple of quick interludes that have a spirit filled church testifying, making you feel you’re right in the pew. The horns preach like a Baptist minister on the swaying blues of the title track, while swaying easily with Davis’ bass work on “Peter’s First Step.” McCune’s piano is recitative gentle on “Never Too Late,” fitting in well with Nelson’s husky sound. Nelson’s soprano blends beautifully with Williams on the gracious “Consider It All Joy” and bounces like a skipped stone with the altoist on the Sea of Galilee on the bopping “I’ll Be A Fool.” Most riveting is Nelson’s declaration from the Mount, declaring with solemnity on “Blessed Are Those That Mourn” whle celebrating womanhood on “More Than Rubies.” Nice to have music with a message from above as an extra bonus. Or is it the other way around?
Musicstand Records