Master Bassist, Composer and Producer Henry "The Skipper" Franklin has just released his new CD, "Showers of Blessings". The theme for Franklin's latest musical effort is a heartfelt tribute to significant people and events that have touched his remarkable life. As the leader of this band, a musically perfect sextet, he selected 6 renowned Jazz professionals to join him. Franklin has gifted us with brilliant Jazz music that is new and refreshing to hear. Henry Franklin has musically done it all, but I am so glad he put this sextet together. I understand that this recording was put together without any prerehearsals which in itself is a tribute to the master level of all the musicians involved. Theo Saunders is on Piano and he composed 3 of the songs on the CD. I am attaching one of his compositions "The Return of The Skipper" at the end of this review. Dr. Teodross Avery is on Tenor and Soprano Sax, Ryan Porter is on Trombone, Nolan Shaheed is on Trumpet and Flugle Horn and Willie Jones III is on Drums. Franklin also invited three guest artists to join the group: Benn Clatworthy playing Alto Flute "The Valley of Search", Najite Agindotan percussion on "Message to Marjorie" and Yaakov Levy Wooden Flute on "Message to Marjorie". I am also attaching a "YouTube" of one of Henry Franklin's compositions, " Little Miss Laurie".
Multi-talented Henry Franklin continues to create the highest level of Jazz music for all of us to enjoy. His formula is simple, great Jazz composing and great musicians playing straight ahead Jazz. It sure works Henry! Henry Franklin performs frequently in the Southern California area so next time you are in the area look for him and don't miss seeing him live!
PLAYLIST:
1. Message to Marjorie
2. The Return of the Skipper
3. Coconut Island
4. Ballad for Aisha
5. Black Lives Lost
6. The Valley of Search
7. Skipper Meets Pharaoh
8. The Guardian
9. Little Miss Laurie
PLAYERS:
Henry Franklin-Bass
Theo Saunders-Piano
Dr. Teadross Avery- Tenor and Soprano Sax
Ryan Porter-Trombone
Nolan Shaheed-Trumpet ad Flugle Horn
Willie Jones III-Drums
Special Guets:
Najite Agindotan-Percussion
Yaakov Levy-Wooden Flute
Benn Clotworthy-Alto Flute
"The Return of the Skipper"
