Eagles Point

Eagles Point offers a popular view of San Franciscos Lands End Park, and the serene, stunning view of the rocky cliffs and the Golden Gate Bridge can be felt in Chris Potters album by the same name; just by looking at song titles like "Cloud Message," "Horizon Dance," and "Malaga Moon," you know this is a record about looking into the distance and feeling connected beyond the moment. After Potters previous set, the live Got the Keys to the Kingdom, which focused on covers, his 2024 record features eight new compositions by the saxophonist himself. It was recorded with a group of like-minded luminaries, pianist Brad Mehldau, bassist John Patitucci, and drummer Brian Blade, who bring in considerable experience as bandleaders and sidemen for heavyweights like Wayne Shorter or Joshua Redman. While Potter has played with all three on various occasions since the late 80s and early 90s, this is the first time theyre playing as a unit. The resulting album is a luxurious journey, featuring four creative musicians in a conversation thats as engaging as it is laid-back -- they connect on an intuitive, emotional level, complementing each other without ever feeling the need to become the center of attention. Everyone has plenty of opportunity to shine, supported by the others. Check out how the rhythm section on "Cloud Message" playfully goes against the grain without ever losing its light-footed swing. Check out the range between Chris Potters cool bass clarinet on the dreamy "Indigo Ildiko" and his passionate solo on the more dramatic "Malaga Moon." Listen to Mehldaus delicate chords that set the mood on the opening "Dream of Home" and his piano solo that playfully teases the rhythm section on "Horizon Dance." Patituccis melodic support is also a standout, as are Blades varied textures. Eagles Point is a masterful record that offers many pleasures throughout its entirety and keeps revealing nuances on repeated listens. The music feels as timeless as those cliffs at Eagles Point. ~ Christian Genzel

10年前は新興レーベルだったeditionもすっかり現代JAZZシーンの中核に。そしてその躍進を支えてきた大いなる存在、最高峰サックス奏者クリス・ポッターの新作が登場です。ライブ盤に続いて、ここらでひとつ「歴史的名盤」を録音しておこうという感のあるこの1枚…メルドー、パティトゥッチ、そしてブライアン・ブレイドという説明不要なメンバーを迎えたカルテットは、アコースティック・ジャズが100年で築いてきたものを見事に昇華させて届けてくれます。ボーナス・トラック《オール・ザ・シングス・ユーアー》のソロ演奏まで、すべてが凄まじく神々しく、最高にカッコいい!
intoxicate (C)谷本真悟