Seamus Blake

Brad Turner and Seamus Blake reunite nearly 20 years later and the results are breathtaking. Sometimes trying to recreate something can be unsuccessful, and the results can be disappointing. But it's no surprise that ''Jump Up'' is a huge success. The album features 9 new all original compositions by Brad and he penned some beauties. There is a palpable excitement and electricity in these tracks, clearly demonstrating that Seamus and Brad are both relishing sharing the front line again.

Fifteen years later, but well worth the wait, Joel Haynes is back with his third album 'The Return' on Cellar Music. The Toronto-based drummer laid down the album in Vancouver with an all-star band including Seamus Blake on saxophone, Neil Swainson on bass, and Tilden Webb on piano. Fine original compositions are juxtaposed by some killer covers including 'Tomorrow Never Knows' by The Beatles.

Returning anew to the original record it's fascinating to re-discover how provocative Pink Floyd's classic remains, and to hear how well this quartet's collective interplay served that music. And how beautifully Sam Yahel's organ-while not the dominant voice, surely a prominent presence-sets the aesthetic tone for these proceedings: nothing rushed or forced or extravagant…elegant and swinging and exploratory, never stepping on anyone's toes-deceptively laid back and responsive, always listening intently, with plenty of rhythmic vitality…a sensibility he shares with collaborators Mike Moreno, Ari Hoenig and Seamus Blake, which goes a long ways towards explaining why their take on Pink Floyd's music is so engaging and stands up so well to repeated listenings.

New York based saxophonist/composer SEAMUS BLAKE is recognized as one of the finest exponents of contemporary jazz. His music is known for its sophistication, bold improvisations and “sheer swagger". John Scofield, who hired Seamus for his “Quiet Band,” called him “extraordinary, a total saxophonist.” Throughout his 24 year career, Seamus has garnered critical praise for his masterful playing, his fine compositional skills and for his facility as a leader.