Artist: Ernest Stuart
Title: Solitary Walker
Label: Ernest Stuart
Genre: Jazz
Reviewed by Angela Davis
Ernest Stuart is a multi-talented trombonist who has established himself as a reputable sideman in both the New York and Philadelphia areas with notable names such as Branford Marsalis, Billy Paul and the great Duke Ellington Orchestra. His debut album Solitary Walker showcases not only his impressive trombone playing that is strongly routed in the tradition, but his formidable composition and arranging skills.
On Solitary Walker Stuart has assembled some of Philadelphia’s finest musicians including saxophonist Tim Warfield, trumpeter Leon Jordan, vocalist Chrissie Loftus, and a rhythm section featuring Justin Faulkner on drums, Mike Boone on bass, Masami Kuroki on guitar and Orrin Evans on piano.
The album features nine tracks, all of which Stuart arranged, and four of which are original compositions. The arrangements seem to draw almost equally from the hard-bob tradition and the tradition of Philadelphia soul to create some very unique and exciting moments.
Notable tracks include “Oh Snap”, on which we hear Warfield, Evans and Stuart navigating through some up-tempo changes with ease and precision. Warfield’s ballad–like arrangement of “Love for Sale” is truly something else, especially with the stunning talent of Christie Loftus whose enchanting voice makes you want to listen to the track over and over again (also the case with “September in the Rain”).
Stuart has created an inspiring debut that will no doubt push him closer to the forefront of the jazz scene in both Philadelphia and New York. It of course didn’t hurt to construct a line-up of some of Phillies most prominent musicians and distinctive soloists. The result is that Solitary Walker will possibly, and deservedly so go down in history as one of 2011’s finest releases.
Buy and listen to music
Up coming NY concert: 03/16/11 Stuart playing in Bobby Zankle Bigband @ The Iridium
Eric Stuart performing with Soul Fuego @ Chris’ Jazz Cafe
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