Saxophonist Andy Page assembled an A-list of “next generation” New Orleans jazz musicians—pianist Oscar Rossignoli, drummer Jason Marsalis and bassist Robin Sherman—to explore his challenging original material for Mobius. Let’s just say his compositions and progressive approach aren’t your usual fare.
To start an album with a tune called “Melancholy,” the name of which suits the mood, initially seems rather odd, though it takes a definite turn as happens during many of the selections.
“Tedium” is anything but. It embraces a repeated melody, is full of life and boundless energy with everyone fully involved. That’s an especially significant aspect of the release in that each of these artists brings their very individual voices to the collective sound. For instance, on “Quandary,” Rossignoli takes advantage of his varied influences such as a Latin tinge and his classical training, both available beneath his fingertips. Leader Page might sometimes melodically suggest Middle Eastern strains, while Marsalis uses his entire trap set to provide a multitude of tones with Sherman’s delicious bottom that provides a solid and exotic base. It’s jazz, however, that brings them together under one communal roof.
Page beautifully opens the final cut, “Intrepid,” that sways at the start, then builds in intensity that’s led by the sax and piano, pushed by Marsalis and Sherman. Yet, it lovingly returns to the sway.
Though all of the tunes are unfamiliar to most people’s ears, Mobius remains successful and accessible on the shear strength and imagination of Page and his band of very able and flexibly creative artists.
