Search - Ray Anderson :: Every One of Us

An American Master

Richard Kuntzelman | Kalispell, MT | 06/20/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Chicago born trombonist Ray Anderson's fourth solo album, "Every One of Us," features seven tracks of semi-obscure standards and creative original compositions. Clearly a project made early in his career, Anderson's improvisation is occasionally unfocused, but overall it is unmistakably the work of an emerging talent that with maturity and experience will easily rise to be one of the great trombone masters of the early 21st century.



For five straight years, Ray Anderson was named best trombonist in the Down Beat Magazine Critics Poll and declared "the most exciting slide brass player of his generation" by the Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD. In this particular venture, Ray Anderson simultaneously displays youthful vigor and seasoned grace that is uncommon in such a young player. He is a technically crazy trombonist with an amazing range who possesses a mastery of multiphonics and makes use of a deliciously inventive plunger technique.



The trio containing Simon Nabatov on Piano, Charlie Haden on Double Bass and drummer Ed Blackwell backs up Ray Anderson and pairs four highly compatible musical personalities. The interchange and collaboration shows a musical communication that can only come from a deep mutual respect for each other's musical talents.



"Every One of Us" displays a wide mastery of Anderson's musical technique from the rock fusion sounds of "Funkallific" and "Kinda Garnerish" to surprisingly emotional ballads. "Brother Can you Spare a Dime" features horn playing and singing in a tuneful, emotional rendition that captures the essence of this depression-era anthem. Anderson also successfully pays tribute to jazz giants who so greatly influenced his style. Wayne Shorter's "Lady Day" and the epic "Dear Lord" from the John Coltrane repertoire are both presented with finesse and delicacy.



Occasionally silly, Ray Anderson's range, skill and raw power make "Every One of Us" an album that should be included in any jazz aficionado's collection.

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