jazzmatazz

Dave Holland Quintet

Prime Directive
(ECM)

Composing, arranging and improvising—the successful integration of these three radically different aspects of jazz is the mark of a master and is found on "Prime Directive" (ECM), the latest quintet recording from bassist David Holland.

This recording begins with the premise that jazz is New Orleans and avant-garde, and that unique vocal pairings—drums and vibes as both melodic and rhythmic tools; saxophone and trombone; drums and trombone—can bring as much to the music's expressiveness as can the individually-created solos. Surrounding himself with master musicians, including Philadelphian Robin Eubanks on trombone, Holland achieves what most jazz musicians strive for but miss—a compelling creation, designed and arranged by the bassist and given full color by his sidemen. Whether in collective improvisation, post-bop structures, or a pensive, almost poetic mood, this is music at the pinnacle of jazz creativity that always swings. — Jules Epstein

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Release Date: 29 Feb 2000

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last update 1 Sept 2000