| Theo Travis possesses a dark, sonorous and engaging tone, especially on the tenor sax. It is easy on the ear, and consistent with itself throughout the registers. On his newly released Heart of the Sun, his largely British group is enhanced by the efforts of a few Scandinavian musicians, most notably Palle Mikkelborg, a Danish trumpeter whose credits include composing and conducting Miles Davis's Aura, an important 1985 work for both of these artists. His broody, Milesean trumpet and flugelhom bring a quiet lyricism that clearly establishes his influence and import on the overall results of this CD. | |
The liner notes suggest that this project was more composition-based rather than soloist or band-based. To an extent that is the case, creating a sense of the eight tracks being a unified suite. The only inconsistency being the final cut Bass Rock (fish, not fiddle), which runs some 16 minutes, perhaps a bit overlong as a finale.
A fine effort by this talented saxophonist, composer and bandleader. This CD will undoubtedly help to promote his developing vision.
Frank Griffith. |
'Heart of the Sun' 