Wood

by Paula EdelsteinWood is Brian Bromberg's debut for the A440 Music Group, and it is a very strong example of his extraordinary straight-ahead jazz skills as presented in three exciting formats. In addition to the six tracks he performs in a trio setting with drummer David Bromberg and pianist Randy Waldman, Brian Bromberg duets with Waldman on the inimitable "Days of Wine and Roses" and the beautiful tribute "Goodbye (For My Father)," which was previously released on You Know That Feeling. Two amazing solo performances -- "Come Together" and "Star Spangled Banner" -- add further credence to Bromberg's technical and creative virtuosity as one of the premier jazz bassists of his generation. This set is also remarkable because Brian Bromberg is playing the same upright acoustic bass -- a 300-year-old Matteo Guersam, crafted in Milan in the 18th century --- that he used for his professional debut with saxophone legend Stan Getz. Despite its age, the wood (hence the title) emanates rich, mellow sounds that perfectly complement such jazz gems as Miles Davis' "All Blues," Herbie Hancock's "Dolphin Dance," and Thelonious Monk's "Straight No Chaser." Bromberg's tapping method on "Come Together" provides clear and convincing evidence of his mastery of this technique, while his awesome pizzicato chops are burnin' on "Speak Low." Wood is a radical departure from Bromberg's world-renowned smooth jazz releases -- New Day, Magic Rain, BASSically Speaking, and You Know That Feeling -- but nevertheless showcases the exceptional bass techniques that garnered him critical acclaim as one of the 100 best bassists of the 20th century. A definite must have.