The two latest from Cellar Live demonstrate that labels can still be associated with certain sounds and musical worldviews..
Pianist Charles Chen brings in the strong tenor of Ralph Moore along with the classy team of Peter Washington/b and Kenny Washington/dr form a collection of originals and covers. The team digs in for a rivulet on Cedar Walton’s “Simple Pleasure” and is nifty on the coy “ How About You?”. Some nice bass work introduces “ Peter and the Big Bad Wolf” and deft brush work bops on “Swing State”. Chen hues the blues on “Passport” and is gracious on the trio take of “These Foolish Things”. Timeless treats.
Drummer Ulysses Owens brings together a band with a big punch including also sax (Sara Hanahan-Erena Terakubo), trumpet (Benny Benack III-Anthony Hervey), piano (Luther Allison-Tyler Bullock), bass (Philip Norris-Ryoma Takenaga) and guest vocalist Milton Suggs. Owens taps out a gospel groove for Bullock on “Better Days” and for Suggs on the riveting “Heart Full Of Rhythm”. The horns smack you right off the bat on the soul groove of “Sticks” and is silky smooth for “Until I See You Again”. Things are getting betta!