Don Houge (pronounced HOW-ghee) has a big, warm, enveloping sound on
tenor and soprano saxes, inspired by Trane and Sonny and Getz, and never
forgets that music is a deeply sensual experience. His Accurate debut
finds him with a band to match. "The Eternal Now" features acoustic jazz
(plus Stratocaster), accent on the groove, from Afro 6/8, to James
Brown funk, to Steely Dan-esque latin rock.
Guitarist Kevin Barry, a
rising star on the New England blues scene (w/Mighty Sam McClain, Bruce
Katz and others), proves his jazz mettle without sacrificing his
visceral, passionate blues/country sound. Pianist Consuelo Candelaria
has full, McCoy Tynerish approach, and rock solid acoustic bassist
Michael Rivard has long been a pillar of the Boston scene, touring and
recording with The Story, The Courage Brothers, Natraj and back in the
'80's, with the Either/Orchestra. Drummer Jay Bellrose, known for his
work with Paula Cole and Talking to Animals, lays it down in ways that a
conventional jazz drummer wouldn't.
The album is comprised of Houge originals plus "Mopti," a joyous tune by the late Don Cherry.
"The Eternal Now" will satisfy fans of modern mainstream jazz and fans
of sophisticated acoustic pop who are looking for something with a
jazzy touch.
Personnel: Don Houge, ts,ss; Consuelo Candelaria, pn; Kevin Barry, gtr; Michael Rivard, bs; Jay
Bellrose, dr.
