Saxophone master Joel Press has decided to spend his time in New York City, and that’s very good news. He’s an original — a soft-voiced player who can growl and moan in the best Southwestern tradition (even when it has been assimilated through Boston) but often prefers to ride the rhythm, uttering tender, looping lines. While remaining himself, he encompasses the whole tradition — with nods to Sonny Rollins and Bud Freeman, to Herschel Evans and Lester Young.
A few weeks ago, Joel led a wonderful quartet at Smalls (183 West Tenth Street in Greenwich Village) with Tardo Hammer on piano; Sean Smith, string bass; Steve Little, drums.
THAT OLD FEELING:
THERE IS NO GREATER LOVE:
GONE WITH THE WIND:
LOVER MAN:
Bb BLUES:
New York is lucky to have you back, Joel. Thanks for the beautiful floating sounds!
May your happiness increase.
