my arrangement of mr. handy’s composition begins with a snare military-style statement of the twenty-one eight-time cycle joined by bass and piano in a four-cycle vamp, followed by a soprano saxophone statement of the first saint louis blues theme. this leads to the second theme played twice over a 7 dotted-quarter beat feel whose time span equals the twenty-one eight pattern. i interpret this section as a new orleans second line groove with toms and snare. the third theme is set in 24 bars of fast seven-eight time and moves to the bass solo on the first theme over its original groove. art and i play stop time during wes’ solo as another connection to the new orleans style. art’s solo begins alone in a ragtime style in 7 beats, and we join him in a 7-beat swing feel grooving out to the edge. david’s saxophone solo drives us over the fast seven-eight feel that becomes a swing in fast 7. we then restate the 3 themes followed by a coda from the last four cycles of the third theme. saxophone, piano, and bass exit, leaving drums to dissolve the third theme groove, with ending snare drips symbolizing the blood of those lost but not forgotten.
credits
from time changes,
track released February 5, 2019
(c) 1914 w. c. handy, arrangement (c) 2014 royal hartigan
supported by 4 fans who also own “st. louis blues”
i was at 2 of these shows and they were a highlight of the year for me, so glad to see this music released -- the interplay is incredible and the interpretations are so fresh. the recording quality is excellent as well. e123
supported by 4 fans who also own “st. louis blues”
This quintet has acquired legendary status as a working unit...all the musicians are exemplary at their craft and DD is one of my 'Big5'...he is an exquisite composer of both depth and breadth of vision...you can instantly recognise Dave's DNA in a tune...what's more, you feel there is also so much more to come!;his powers of expression are so special.
These compositions are from the heart and I can only suggest that you take them to yours...
John Cratchley
supported by 4 fans who also own “st. louis blues”
An orchestra in which all instruments are serving a journey into faraway places, between jazz, classic and impressionism, with beautiful arrangements. A sweet invitation for a peaceful escape from these dark times. Highly recommended ! mili1
South African tenor sax player threads a transportive jazz tapestry alongside talented players from either side of the Atlantic. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 11, 2024
supported by 4 fans who also own “st. louis blues”
This album feels as if it could have been released in the late 50's, except for it's thoroughly modern approach. It's first class musicians working with first class material. It's been a consistent 'go-to' album since I purchased it. Kenneth Pyron