Search - Ralph Alessi :: This Against That

Ralph Alessi
This Against That
Genres: Jazz, Pop

Track Listings (14) - Disc #1
1. Oversoul pt. 1
2. Haw Hee
3. Soy Ink
4. Elaine
5. Expectations
6. Dialogue with the Mirror
7. Telepathic Voyeur
8. Angels
9. Affect Images
10. pt. 1
11. pt. 2
12. pt. 3
13. pt. 4
14. Mahalia

CD Details

All Artists: Ralph Alessi
Title: This Against That
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 0
Label: Rkm Music
Original Release Date: 5/1/2002
Release Date: 5/1/2002
Genres: Jazz, Pop
Style:
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 783707538525

Synopsis

Product Description

This recording features flugelhorn/trumpeter Ralph Alessi's musically sophisticated compositions that unfold in a narrative manner, evoking images ranging from a slightly twisted cabaret to Wild West. Although the line-up hints at an all-star record of hired guns, this CD illustrates the contrary as Ralph has been performing and recording with each of these musicians on a regular basis over the last few years in an ensemble led by Don Byron, Steve Coleman, Uri Caine and Fred Hersch. This Against That provides the opportunity to hear seven of the most unique voices in improvised music coming together to explore a colorful and inventive array of pieces. Features special guests Jason Moran on piano and vocalist Julie Patton.

CD Reviews

Great trumpet playing & great song writing

Scott Williams | Oakland, CA United States | 05/04/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This Against That is yet another great performance by trumpeter Ralph Alessi. Alessi uses his beautiful airy tone and impressive chops as he solos over syncopated repetitive riffs. The song writing is reminiscent of song writing by McCoy circa 1970. Like Tyner's Cosmos and Sama Layuca, many of Alessi's songs (e.g. Soy Ink & Expectations) feature a catchy 6 or 7 note riff that repeats throughout the song. These hooks give the songs instant appeal. Depth, and lasting appeal are added to these "catchy hooks" by an impressive list of soloists: clarinetist Don Byron, guitarist David Gilmour, pianist Jason Moran, drummer Nasheet Waits, and bassist Drew Gress. The only knock against the album is the 4 part "I'm a cowboy on the boat of Ra". This 4 part saga features spoken poetry by Julie Patton. This poetry feels out of place in the album. In my opinion poetry mixed with jazz always comes of as a bit cheesy. Other than that, this is fantastic album and is highly recommended. Any fan of the trumpet who has not yet heard Ralph Alessi, must pick up one of Alessi's album and see what's happening with trumpet in the 21st century."