Night Song

Arthur Blythe - Night Song (1997) {Clarity Recordings CCD-1016}
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© 1997 Clarity Recordings | CCD-1016
Jazz / Contemporary Jazz / Post Bop / Saxophone

This is a particularly intriguing and enjoyable release. Arthur Blythe, who has always had a piercing, passionate, and fairly accessible sound on alto, is joined by Bob Stewart on tuba, Gust Tsilis (doubling on marimba and vibes), three hand drummers (Arto Tuncboyaciyan, Josh Jones, and David Frazier), and occasionally his producer, Chico Freeman, on bass clarinet and percussion. The instrumentation varies from cut to cut, with several duets (including one in which the bass clarinet and tuba blend perfectly together), opportunities for Blythe to play with just the percussionists, and rather unusual versions of Thelonious Monk's "We See" and Billy Strayhorn's "Blood Count." Whether it be hints at New Orleans parade rhythms, Afro-Cuban jazz, older styles of jazz, or freer explorations, this is a fascinating set that is well worth several listens.

Many know her as the front woman of Blackmore's Night where for the past 18 years she has been performing the songs she has co-written with her husband, legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With her 2nd solo offering, 'Starlight, Starbright', Night's vocal quality is richer than in years past, bringing you to a quiet and intimate place; a place of beauty and dreams, inspired by the birth of her children, Autumn (5) and Rory (3). 'I really felt just so completely full of love and part of this bigger picture, this miracle,' Night remembers. 'I wanted to sing to celebrate this incredible life that was occurring inside of me. I've never felt so spiritual.' On 'Starlight, Starbright' you will find new original melodies, some co-written and played with Ritchie Blackmore, some solo by Night.