Joshua Redman returns in a big way on May 24. His debut releases with the Nonesuch label are a new Elastic Band recording and an acoustic record featuring Redman with the all-star band he created with the San Francisco Jazz Organization (SFJAZZ).
On Momentum, the Elastic Band continues its plugged-in exploration of groove and jazz. The 12-track release features original compositions by the band as well as taking on music by Led Zeppelin, Sheryl Crow, and Ornette Coleman. Listen for contributions by Stefon Harris, Flea, ?uestlove, Nicholas Payton, and the soon-to-be ubiquitous Me’shell Ndegeocello.
The SF Collective release is music from the group’s 2004 live performances which featured the music of Ornette Coleman as well as band originals. And what a collective last year: vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, trumpeter Nicholas Payton, pianist Renee Rosnes, trombonist Josh Roseman, bassist Robert Hurst, and drummer Brian Blade. Nonesuch’s web site has more information, including this year’s SF Collective lineup.
Since I didn?t take this opportunity before, I recommend checking out Josh Roseman’s Treats for the Nitewalker release. It’s an engaging hour of inventive trombone fusion. Nothing I heard last year sounded like it.