His latest record is from Smoke Sessions in New York, 2022, and the sentiment is K.C. I found this album on Christmas Day, and I have been discovering things with every listen. The title tune is a fiery warmup, which is useful for below-zero days.
There are four more pieces by Bobby Watson (alto saxophone).
“Our Love Remains” is a writing collaboration between Bobby and Pamela Watson. Carmen Lundy adds smooth, delicate vocals on this song.
“Bon Voyage”: The title and the melody feel like Herbie Hancock’s “Maiden Voyage.” For me, I like both voyages.
The title, “Side Steps,” suggests “Giant Steps,” but the pace is less frenetic.
The last tune is “Blues for Alto,” a romp for everybody at the end of the session.
Three songs are from the players:
“Red Bank Heist”: Victor Jones (drums). Throughout the album, he uses symbols gracefully. On Jones’ tune, Watson and Jeremy Pelt (trumpet) blend really well. I couldn’t hear if they were in unison or harmonizing.
“The Star in the East”: Cyrus Chestnut (piano), with charming solos for Watson and Chestnut.
“Celestial”: Jeremy Pelt (trumpet): has a welcoming feel with the use of Pelt’s mute.
Watson also brought in three songs by other writers. One of them was “Dear Lord” by John Coltrane. That piece may make you think about life.
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