Trumpeter Ralph Alessi has had an impressive career as a sideman for the likes of Ravi Coltrane, Steve Coleman and Fred Hersch. His own albums have been quite strong, with this most recent one with the adroit rhythm team of Gary Versace/p, Drew Gress/b and Nasheet Waits/dr providing the perfect framework for his melodic trumpet. The entire atmosphere here, where Alessi is playing muted or open in his horn, is of panoramic serenity.
Even slightly kinetic pieces such as “Here Tomorrow” are held together by Alessi’s warm horn as Waits sticks create some sharp angles. On “Window Goodbyes” and “Heist” Versace’s piano delivers some added romance to Alessi’s lyrical tone, and as the leader puts on his Harmon for “Gone Today, Here Tomorrow,” the mix of Waits’ rumble and Versace’s drapery makes for wistful listening. Gress’ bass is patient and tender, forming a gentle pulse throughout as a gentle guide as on “I to I”, keeping things on a slight slope. Fragrant moments.
ECM Records