Leo Richardson Quartet: Move

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

Leo Richardson (ts)
Ed Richardson (d)
Rick Simpson (p, ky)
Tim Thornton (b)
Alex Garnett (ts)

Label:

Ubuntu Music

October/2019

Media Format:

CD

Catalogue Number:

UBU0026

RecordDate:

14-15 Nov 2019

I heard Richardson's quartet live recently and admired their energy and full-on commitment to the post-Coltrane cause. Richardson (son of bassist Jim) didn't let up and nor did his companions, including unrelated drummer Ed. And that pretty much is the dish served up here. Garnett guests on just one track, a lively two-tenor tear-up entitled ‘Second Wind’ in which neither man seems to run short of wind at all. Elsewhere, it's the quartet working through a series of leader Leo's pleasing originals, typified by ‘The Demise’, a perky theme that launches a long extemporisation by Richardson that is full of complexity and hints at the Coltrane cry - no wonder sleeve-note writer Alan Skidmore approves - the rhythm section pumping hard behind him. Pianist Simpson, a new name to me, is similarly bright and resourceful in his solo, Tyner-ish if you like, while bassist Thornton, impressive throughout, holds the collective together as drummer Ed powers through. I liked ‘Martini Shuffle’, a number that seems to recall past Blue Note themes, tenor and pianist harmonising momentarily before Leo opens up and moves into the higher register. Some respite from these torrential effusions comes in the quietly lyrical ‘E.F.G.’, which has Simpson playing an anthem-like solo introduction, Leo entering in understated fashion, spacious in his phrasing and soft-toned as he takes the slow road through. Much the same goes for the appropriately-named ‘Peace’. So, strong playing, cleverly constructed compositions and a wholehearted commitment to the music. Impressive.

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