Paul Dunmall: Bright Light A Joyous Celebration

Editor's Choice

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

Dave Kane
Hamid Drake
Xhosa Cole (ts)
Corey Mwamba (vb)
Paul Dunmall (ts, c, ss)
Soweto Kinch (as, ts)

Label:

Discus Music

February/2024

Media Format:

CD, DL

Catalogue Number:

DISCUS162CD

RecordDate:

Rec. 14 November 2022

Here’s a line-up to get excited about – and one which probably only Paul Dunmall could succeed in pulling together.

One of the few UK horn players with a transatlantic reputation, he’s previously worked with master American drummer Hamid Drake, while, increasingly, acting as a lightning rod for younger UK players. Here, he calls on the talents of two of the hottest saxophonists to emerge on these shores in recent times, Soweto Kinch and Xhosa Cole, plus mercurial vibes player Corey Mwamba and long-time collaborator, the excellent Dave Kane on bass.

The session is aptly named. Four of the five tracks are based on minimal heads by Dunmall – ranging from a multi-horned exultation to a cheeky R&B groove – which provide the context for gloriously unfettered blowing from the three saxes punctuated by some deliciously salty vibraphone interjections. Drake is a powerhouse throughout, driving the performances with muscular verve and a deep sense of swing. The longest piece is a spontaneous group improvisation, which finds its way into a loping, reggae-ish vamp, with Kane eagerly and adroitly jumping on Drake’s deep groove.

It comes as little surprise to discover all tracks are first takes. When something’s right, it’s right.

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