Look out! The young lions are coming out of the den. Emerging from the UNO Jazz Studies program, Quintology is the kind of group that could make even top-notch veterans want to go woodshed a few days.
From the first notes of “Kirotedo,” an ingenious original composition by tenorman Brent Rose, we know this is much more than young guys “proving themselves” on the predictable standards and classics. The tune begins with a droning, meditative storm from Rose’s tenor, like Pharaoh Sanders with a punk edge, and then opens up into a fast paced, pulsating bass groove. Mark Diflorio’s drums radiate with melodic splashes, syncopated accents, and dashes of street soul. (The influence of Johnny Vidacovich is pronounced, as with most young New Orleans drummers.)
There is a surprising level of polished adventure on this independent debut, superbly produced by guitarist Brian Seeger. All eleven tunes are originals, contributed by different band members. All five musicians are establishing themselves individually on the local scene, in various groups and styles, so each brings a unique perspective to the table, but they have clearly devoted the energy and time necessary to play as a cohesive unit. These complex originals could have sounded forced and stale; instead, they sound natural and easy. You can tell they’re having fun interpreting each others’ music.
Other highlights include trumpeter Mark Rapp’s tune, “Committee,” with good solo work from Rapp and pianist Charlie Dennard. Dennard can get funky as hell, but shows restraint and poise here, hinting at a Latin dance melody without giving into it fully. Rose’s other songs are interesting, such as the super-catchy “Ohbobabebop,” “Green Cigarettes On A Red Hot Day,” and the more introspective ballad, “For A Smile.” Bassist Brady Kish’s tune “A Night In February” shows the band’s willingness to go “out there,” as a tight, stop-and-start melody gives way to free-form group improvisation.
In New Orleans, we’re almost accustomed to dazzling young jazz players coming out of the woodwork, but rarely do they emerge with so much originality and cohesiveness.
