Think Free

Allison, Ben
Palmetto Records
Jazz | Oct 2009

Reviews

Fo
Reviewed 2009-12-06
BEN ALLISON: Think Free
Palmetto, 2009

MODERN JAZZ – Bassist Allison continues to drift from his earlier chamber-jazz sound into something new and more rock-oriented, while also adding violinist Jenny Scheinman to his group. His distinctive, deceptively simple compositional style remains intact, and he continues his tradition of revisiting and recasting older compositions. I still prefer the older stuff, but Scheinman brings an enlivening freshness, and the seamless, perfectly formed tunes have a highly engaging sound.

Shane Endsley - trumpet
Jenny Scheinman - violin
Steve Cardenas - guitar
Ben Allison - bass
Rudy Royston - drums

* * * * | Fo’s Picks: 2, 3, 5, 6, 8

1. 6:31 – relaxed groove with a simple melody, rock beat, mild country aspect
2. 7:17 – upbeat, circular feel: the unusual textures of the band really shine
3. 6:02 – relaxed, nostalgic air: gentle guitar & trumpet, lovely flow
4. 6:25 – slouching tune with some electronic touches, slightly sinister edge
5. 4:49 – gentle, episodic, spinning: blends rustic thoughtfulness and urbanity
6. 7:22 – pretty walking tune, catchy, parallel rhythms move at multiple speeds
7. 1:47 – improvisational interlude: heavy, ominous rhythm, melodic scraps
8. 5:29 – upbeat soulful stroll: nice bass and violin solos really make it

[ Fo ] 12/06/09

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Charting

2009-12-06 — 2010-02-07 Jazz
Week EndingAirplays
Feb 7 1
Jan 31 2
Jan 24 3
Jan 10 1
Jan 3 1
Dec 27 1
Dec 20 1
Dec 13 2

Track listing

1. Fred
2. Platypus
3. Broke
4. Kramer Vs. Kramer Vs. Godzilla
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6. Peace Pipe
7. Vs. Godzilla
8. Green Al