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Saxophonist Steve Wilson’s extensive experience with the Mingus Big Band and Chick Corea’s
Origin make up only a shadow of the vast array of musical influences on his definition of jazz. His
career has carried him to all facets of the jazz world: some adventurous and some laid back.
Soulful Song represents a theme. The leader has brought his favorite sounds together into one
album. Of his inspiration for this kind of musical celebration, Wilson says, “On the same [radio]
station one could experience the best of R&B, jazz, blues, gospel, comedy, and social commentary.”
Where “Reasons” issues smoothly with a funky backbeat and a contemporary aura, Bruce
Barth’s “Wilsonian Alto” sends out sparks of adventure and innovation. Modern jazz triumphs over
smooth jazz on this piece.
Three vocalists help the saxophonist in his interpretation of jazz, R&B, blues, and gospel. Carla
Cook rains emotion in a church setting with her soulful interpretation of “Carla’s Gospel,” with
Fender Rhodes and flute assisting her in working wonders for the soul. René Marie brings Abbey
Lincoln’s “Caged Bird” into focus as no other form of social commentary can do. Philip Manuel sings
of respecting others as well as yourself on an R&B-flavored jazz arrangement that drives straight
ahead with a funky beat designed to instill self-confidence. No one can absorb “Respect Yourself”
without coming away feeling better inside... that’s what radio is supposed to do for you.
Throughout his session, Wilson’s soul-stirring saxophones provide a unique form of
communication, connecting with his audience on several levels. We’re not expected to turn a deaf
ear to musical styles that remain apart from our dear favorites. We should remain forever open to it
all. In the same manner that Nat King Cole could bring everyone together, Wilson corrals a variety of
specialties here under one umbrella. Along with pianist Barth, bassist Ed Howard, and drummer
Adam Cruz, the leader paves a strong, straight-ahead jazz foundation. On the surface, however,
he’s opened up avenues through which a much larger audience can easily appreciate Steve
Wilson’s soulful songs.
~ Jim Santella
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Track Listing: You’re Everything; Wish You Were Here; Reasons; Wilsonian Alto; Wishful Thinking; Respect
Yourself; Caged Bird; Carla’s Gospel; Easy Going Evening (My Mama’s Call); Third World
Revolution; Tortola; And Eye You (BC); Carla’s Gospel (reprise).
Personnel: Steve Wilson- alto saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute; Bruce Barth- piano, Fender Rhodes; Paul
Bollenback- acoustic & electric guitar; Ed Howard- bass; James Genus- electric bass; Billy Kilson-
drums; Adam Cruz- drums, percussion; Wilson “Chembo” Corniel- percussion; Carla Cook, Philip
Manuel, René Marie-vocals.
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