16 Feb
At Last by The Landham Brothers
- Written by Lee Prosser
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Mainstays on the Philadelphia jazz scene, alto saxophonist Robert Landham and drummer Byron Landham are part of a healthy setting that also includes such important names as trumpeter John Swana and pianist Orrin Evans. Of the two brothers, Byron has received the most recognition outside of his hometown via his regular gig with organ phenom Joey DeFrancesco. AT LAST is a self-produced set that more than adequately shows the musical virtues of brotherly love. All of the tunes except for the Ray Draper line "Klifford’s Kappa" are penned by Robert and a strong modal feel dominates. Both "Turbulence" and "Woody, Wayne & McCoy" offer the kind of high-octane stuff that recalls those late ‘60s Blue Notes. Robert’s alto voice is distinctive, proving to be sharp and muscular, but not acidic. Pianist Orrin Evans steals the show at times with a "McCoy meets Cecil Taylor" outlook which also makes the most of his technical prowess. Byron tears it up in his many solo spots throughout and his adaptability and sound are indicative of the major player status that he has obtained. If you can track down a copy of this set from Byron or Robert at one of their gigs you’ll certainly do well by checking it out. It’s uneven in places, but the fiery and inspired moments more than make up for the rough spots.
Additional Info
- Artist / Group Name: The Landham Brothers
- CD Title: At Last
- Genre: Straight-Ahead / Classic
- Year Released: 2000
- Record Label: Straight Street
- Musicians: Robert Landham (alto sax), Byron Landham (drums), Orrin Evans (piano), Reid Anderson (bass), John Blake, Jr. (violin on track 3 only), Joey DeFrancesco (organ on track 6 only), Curtis Weaver (guitar on tracks 1, 4 & 6)
- Label Website: -
- Rating: Five Stars
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Straight-Ahead / Classic - CD Reviews
