Artist: Brian Landrus Trio
Title: The Deep Below
Label: BlueLand Records
Genre: jazz
CD Review by Dawoud Kringle
Brian Landrus teamed up with Lonnie Plaxico and drummer Billy Hart to produce a quite unique offering.
Brooklyn based Brian Landrus began playing saxophone at 12 and was performing professionally by 15 and has earned the description of “a low woodwind player and composer” and made his name with his specializing in the low end of the audio spectrum (baritone saxophone, bass clarinet, bass saxophone, bass flute, and alto flute). Landrus plays in many different ensembles and currently tours with Esperanza Spalding. Landrus formed his own record label, BlueLand Records in 2011, and released three CDs. He has worked with Bob Brookmeyer, Jerry Bergonzi, Rufus Reid, Lonnie Plaxico, Michael Cain, Danilo Perez, Frank Carlberg, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Coasters, The Drifters, George Garzone, Jason Palmer, Billy Hart, Rakalam Bob Moses, Esperanza Spalding, and others.
Stream “Fly” from the CD: https://soundcloud.com/bk-
The CD opens with “Fly,” a smooth, inviting piece that gently insinuates itself into the listener’s head. The immediate impression one gets is of a very full sounding ensemble. One is almost surprised to realize this is a trio. As the song evolves, the musicians present a very complete interpretation of the music that also evokes a warmth that one sometimes doesn’t notice is missing from other “deep” jazz excursions.
They continue with Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Lady.” This is given the respect the classic composition deserves. Apart from the obvious musical skill they display, the performance itself is quite enjoyable in a visceral way, taking the listener into the classic “jazz vibe.”
“The Beginning” starts with Landrus showing us how low it can go. The deep and very cleanly executed bass notes on the bass saxophone bring this intimidating instrument into the forefront and shows what it’s capable of.
The bass clarinet is given a night out on “Fields of Zava.” The moody and introspective piece provides a perfect backdrop for the instrument’s character. His measured and clear way of pulling sound from the instrument somehow put me in mind of the late Benny Powell, and his understated way of playing. Hart’s splashy cymbals and mallet-on-toms flowed in and around Plaxico and Landrus.
I was curious to hear how Landrus would approach playing the baritone saxophone on “Giant Steps.” Plaxico and Hart sat this one out, and Landrus went at it alone. He implied the head, rather than actually playing it. Rather, he concentrated on exploring the harmonic intricacies of the piece.
The rest of the CD continued to display Landrus’, Plaxico’s, and Hart’s artistry. The compositions themselves are marvelous, and quite engaging.
The trio prove themselves to be masters of their craft. Landrus’ “low” expertise is given its full expression on this CD. He has clearly found his voice, and knows how to express it. Everything Landrus plays possesses a lyrical quality. Plaxico, whose pedigree needs no introduction, brings a beautiful level of sophistication and knowledge of exactly what needs to be played. Hart’s drum work is always on point and works beautifully with everything Landrus and Plaxico played.
The whole CD is not only an astonishing technical feat; it’s truly a delight to listen to.
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