Balafon Dance by Khan Jamal Quintet

08 Sep

Written by Glenn Astarita
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Veteran modern jazz artists, saxophonist Jemeel Moondoc and trumpeter Roy Campbell lend surefire support here. Yet, vibist and African balafon performer Khan Jamal clearly emerges as the leader of this date. On the opener titled "Odean," the quartet launches into bop-ish swing although drummer Dylan Taylor’s polyrhythmic fills occasionally lands him behind the pulse. Otherwise, the group finds its groove throughout the remainder of this strong set, as Jamal shines as a formidable soloist and superb rhythmic based accompanist. As his textural parts also provide a wide-ranging foundation for his band-mates generally, vibrant soloing spots. The piece titled "Principle," features the vibist’s intentionally off-key Latin groove, topped off by the hornists’ warm choruses, and ominously stated undertones. Jamal works thru various ostinato motifs, notably on the title work where he uses the African balafon to great effect. Here, the dry characteristics of this mallet instrument works wonders, as he generates a buoyant underpinning for Moondoc and Campbell. No doubt, Jamal is a shrewd operator and an artist who seems equally comfortable as a traffic director or when taking the reigns. (Recommended.... )

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Khan Jamal Quintet
CD Title: Balafon Dance
Genre: Folk Jazz
Year Released: 2002
Record Label: C.I.M.P.
Musicians: K.J.: vibes, balafon; J. Moondoc: alto sax; Roy Campbell: trumpet, flugelhorn; Dylan Taylor: bass; Dwight James: drums.
Label Website: http://www.cadencebuilding.com
Rating: Four Stars