Blues For Dexter by Jason Bodlovich

10 Sep

Written by Glenn Astarita
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Recorded in 2001, this sprightly tribute to tenor sax great, Dexter Gordon pronounces a rather all-encompassing vibe, thru the viewpoint of drummer Jason Bodlovich. Featuring the late bassist Ray Brown, this quintet performs four Gordon originals and other works. But the gist of the matter pertains to the ensemble’s mode of capturing Gordon’s distinctive aura, complete with a relaxed sense of urgency, performed at various tempos. Bodlovich is a fine young drummer, whereas trumpeter Jay Thomas doubles on tenor sax for a few energetic exchanges with tenorist, Steve Wolfe. More often than not, the musicians use Gordon’s arrangements as foundations for artistic expression, yet they predominately abide by a rock solid game plan, via these pumping, hard-bop showcases. Occasionally, Wolfe and Thomas toss in a few quotes or stylistic remembrances of Gordon’s signature sound and style, but that is to be expected. Ultimately, the drummer and his musical associates provide a richly thematic, and resonantly enacted tribute to the late saxophonist.