Old Idea

Jazz | Jul 2009

Reviews

Fo
Reviewed 2009-09-06
JOSH BERMAN: Old Idea
Delmark, 2009

AVANT/MODERN JAZZ– Cornetist Josh Berman, who’s been kicking around Chicago’s creative music scene for several years, brings a sharp quintet and subtle approach to this belated debut. The music is approachable but brainy, calmly strolling along with a “less is more” aesthetic. Keefe Jackson’s gently prodding sax and Jason Adasiewicz’s chilled vibraphone complement Berman’s pared-down horn sound.

* * * * | Try any track. Fo’s Picks: 1, 3, 4, 7

1. 7:58 – tentative sound: unison theme, relaxed solos over a low, quiet beat
2. 2:24 – cornet/sax duet: cautious, parallel phrases
3. 7:49 – cool stroll: relaxed, quietly conversational round of solos
4. 7:05 – nifty drum intro, cool grooves give way to sparse, quiet abstraction
5. 2:23 – vibes/bass/drums trio, atmospheric intro, then a snappy groove
6. 6:25 – ballad feel: sparse but lyrical; a free horn dialogue adds interest
7. 7:14 – boppish outline sketch; nice set of solos within a snappy rhythm
8. 5:08 – slooow theme with brighter interjections, very attractive cornet solo
9. 4:18 – slow, steady creep, perks up a bit and scatters, serene bass solo

[ Fo ] 09/06/09

Recent airplay

Almost Late
Memory SelectNov 17, 2009
Nori
Music CasseroleNov 14, 2009
Next Year A
No Fo, $5 Surcharge FeeNov 06, 2009
On Account Of A Hat
Jazz on a Wet AfternoonOct 13, 2009
Let's Pretend
Memory SelectOct 06, 2009
Next Year B
Selected MemoriesSep 25, 2009

Charting

2009-09-13 — 2009-11-15 Jazz
Week EndingAirplays
Nov 15 1
Nov 8 1
Oct 18 1
Oct 11 1
Sep 27 2
Sep 20 1

Track listing

1. On Account Of A Hat
2. Next Year A
3. Let's Pretend
4. Nori
5. Next Year B
6. Almost Late
7. What Can?
8. Db
9. Next Year C