Featured Artist: Gregg August

CD Title: Late August

Year: 2005

Record Label: Iacuessa Records

Style: Contemporary Jazz

Musicians: John Bailey (trumpet), Myron Walden (alto sax), Donny McCaslin (tenor sax), Frank Wess (tenor sax), Alon Yavnai (piano), John Hart (guitar), Gregg August (bass/ composer), Eric McPhearson (drums), Quincy Davis (drums), Ray Baretto (congas), Wilson Corniel (congas)

Review:

Bassist Gregg August is one of the most exciting and innovative musicians on the scene today. Having performed with such luminaries as Chico O'Farrill, Paquito D'Rivera and Steve Wilson, August continues to blaze new trails on what seems to be a never ending journey. Late August is a testament to his intriguing compositions and adventurous playing style. Every selection was written by August.

"Sweet Maladie" is an intense number rife with suspense and changes. Heavy on the rhythm with liberal use of the horns, August creates an invigorating tapestry that at times leaves one breathless. Yavnai's pulsating piano adds another dimension along with McCaslin's creative tenor. August is all over his bass, with passion and conviction. A tour de force of power, depth and beauty.

With a tip of the hat to famed Cuban bassist, Cachao, August creates a brief moment of exuberance and grace on "Los Dos Cotos." Subtle percussion adds to the moment, bringing another dimension to the mix.

Yavnai and August work together on "M's Blues" blending various colors and accents with support from the horn section. As the intensity mounts, so does the creativity. Yavnai's spirited piano is back for another round, with August hot on his trail. McCaslin's digs deep with a searing sax that lifts the spirit and soothes the soul.

"Eulogy" showcases another side of this multi-dimensional bassist. August's hauntingly beautiful bowing is a moment to be treasured.

Using complex rhythmic patterns, August creates a seductive, and captivating vehicle on "Melody In Black And Grey." Bailey and McCaslin stretch out with mind numbing solos, sending the melody into orbit. August and Corniel are featured as well, with solid efforts.

"Deceptions" swings like crazy. Hart plays his heart out with some inspiring chops. Wess is always on the mark with his smooth sounding sax. This seasoned veteran has a keen ear for what sounds right and how to integrate it into the blend.

August is at one with his bass, and a first rate composer to boot. There are many high points on Late August that require repeated listening. The band works so well together, bouncing ideas and having fun along the way. Watch out for August's next release. He is a man on a mission.

Tracks: Sweet Maladie, Four Two K, M's Blues, Treatments In Darkness, Los Dos Cotós, Melody In Black and Grey, Eulogy, Deceptions, Work In Progress

Artist's Website: http://www.greggaugust.com

Reviewed by: Randy McElligott

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