Saxophonist and Composer Anthony E. Nelson Jr. is a young and talented musician who grew up in Essex County New Jersey. In and around the Newark area Anthony was fortunate to hear some of the best Jazz and R&B musicians performing in the 1990's. That was where he heard Jimmy McGriff and fell in love with the Organ as a Jazz instrument. His instrument of choice is the Tenor Sax and Nelson's playing is influenced by some of the Jazz giants in Jazz history. For his latest album, "Swinging Sunset " Nelson says, "I wanted to honor the cats who knew how to do an organ trio right. But I also wanted to pay homage to the great sax players that shaped my understanding of music. I have a great love for artists like Gene Ammons, Houston Person, Stanley Turrentine and other sax giants without whom I wouldn't be the musician I am today". Nelson's sax playing is very accessible because it's lyrical with a deep warm sound. He approaches a tune like a singer approaches a song lyric.
This is Anthony E. Nelson's 5th CD as leader and proves that he can reach across generational and genre lines. The Baptist church has played a major role in his life, and his spirituality is reflected in his each of his CDs.
Nelson is joined by two veteran musicians, Cecil Brooks III on Drums and Kyle Koehler on Hammond B3 Organ. This wonderful CD is an excellent example of why Jazz Organ Trios are so popular.
I have attached two "YouTube" songs for your listening pleasure. The first song is "Canadian Sunset" written by Eddie Heywood and brought into Jazz history by Gene Ammons. Being a Sax player myself, I have always been drawn to Ammons' version of this song. Nelson's phrasing and tone pay homage to one of his and our Jazz heroes, the great Gene Ammons. The second song "Uno Mas Por Roberto" is an original composition written by Nelson for his uncle Bob who speaks fluent Spanish. Nelson says the song has a Soul/Bossa vibe.
Playlist:
1. Canadian Sunset
2. One More Once
3. Girl Talk
4. Uno Mas Por Roberto
5. These Foolish Things
6. Minor Chant
7. Mildew
8. Why Did I Choose You
9. One A Misty Night
10. Three Little Words
11. Walk With Me
12. Last Call
Players:
Anthony E. Nelson, Jr- Tenor Sax, Compositions
Kyle Koehler- Hammond B3 Organ
Cecil Brooks III- Drums
