"Analog Man" - Ernie Watts Quartet

• artist:Ernie Watts Quartet
• featured artist:Ernie Watts - tenor & soprano sax. Christof Saenger - piano Rudi Engel - acoustic bass Heinrich Koebberiling - drums
• release year:2007
• style(s):Fusion, Jazz
• country:USA
• formats:CD (Compact Disc)
• record posted by:basitours
• publisher:Flying Dolphin Records
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For veteran California saxophonist Ernie Watts, here is another example of why he is one of the finest exponents of modern jazz going. His latest CD is one in a long line, pre-and-post his work with Charlie Haden´s Quartet West, that identifies him as an individualist. Since his sound on tenour so closely mirrors Michael Brecker´s, and they are peers, the question will always be - who came first, and who influenced who? Clearly John Coltrane´s muse is extant in both, and they have developed peronal voices. Analog Man succeeds on different levels. François Moutin´s "Clinton Parkview" is a fresh neo - bop piece with effortless, attractive rhythm changes. On soprano sax, of which Watts is an underrated giant, he displays flawless tone, technique, and unlimited sweetness on the modal "Paseando."
The California band of Watts, not well known names nationally, acquit themselves well during the date, especially pianist Christof Saenger, who penned "Paseando." "Gee Baby," one of five Watts originals, shows a blues-jazz sensibility, the band swings hard on the Miles Davis / Victor Feldman hard bopper "Joshua," and he is masterful on the "My Special Angel" flavored ballad "Company." The first two tracks are really long, and may not have been the best lead - off numbers. The "Killer Joe" like easy swinging title track and Brecker - ish neo-bopper "Elements" could have been programmed later in the disc. It is a strong disc, not his best, but adding to the remarkable consistency Watts has enjoyed over his four decade career, and continues to languish in.
All Music Guide