Carl Bartlett Jr. - HOPEFUL
Carl Bartlett Jr. -][- HOPEFUL – [Carl Bartlett, Jr., 2011]
Carl Bartlett Jr.’s Hopeful is a treat for anyone who enjoys the smoke-filled, traditional, and contemporary style of Jazz. Although the first six tracks on Hopeful are original works, they resonate with the eloquence and spirit of John Coltrane. With the assistance of his band, including Sharp Radway on piano, Eric Lemon on bass, Emanuel Harrold on drums, Charles Bartlett on trumpet, and Ron Jackson on guitar, Bartlett, Jr. and crew deliver a well-balanced blueprint for success.
The first and arguably finest track of the group, “Hopeful,” touts Carl’s exuberant yet original alto saxophone play. Reminiscent of a backdrop to a film-noir soundtrack, “Hopeful” displays the strength and confidence of an accomplished artist. The song is complete, as a tour-de-force alto saxophone solo highlights Carl’s skilled range and sensitivity in his approach to Jazz. Next, “Fidgety Season” begins as an upbeat and well-orchestrated track complete with an apt piano introduction that embraces the depth of Carl’s jazz ensemble. “Fidgety Season” showcases a traditional jazz tune filled with lively piano and drum solos culminated by Carl’s vibrant alto leads throughout. Continue reading
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