Alto saxophonist Aram Shelton has made a
name for himself around Chicago’s vibrant music
scene as one of
the keepers of the flame of the first
wave of youngsters after Ken Vandermark and his
associates took hold in the 90’s. In contrast to
many of the current hardnosed Chicagoans,
Shelton stands out with a less acidic approach that
might surprise some folks given his forward-thinking
ideas. Past work in collectives Dragons 1976
and the electro-acoustic environments of Grey
Ghost demonstrate his experimental nature and
Arrive, his debut as a leader, is yet another document
supporting his growing reputation. As for the
specifics, this spacious, yet ambitious 2001 quartet
session features frequent collaborators vibraphonist
Jason Adasiewicz, bassist Jason Roebke, and
drummer Tim Daisy. Adasiewicz’s appearance is
the master stroke and although he is known for his
hard-hitting attack, he is surprisingly subtle, at
times recalling Bobby Hutcherson’s classic Blue
Note era work. In fact, the chamberesque, airy
results easily lead to comparisons with the string of
records from the Hutcherson-Hill-Moncur-McLean
Blue Note axis that remains timeless even today.
The unison, written lines and open setting
commence “On Time,” a hazy sojourn that whirs
thanks to Adasiewicz’s gentle sonorities and
Roebke’s fluid arco. The jaunty swing of “All
Dressed Up” charges next, followed by the lush
balladry of “Because of You.” Initially a bass/vibes
rumination, Shelton and Daisy slide their way into
formation, as the quartet ratchets up the emotionality
of the piece. From a different direction
comes the Classically shaped world of “The
Return” that escalates into an urgent final succession.
Concluding with “Johann & Leo,” the
quartet introspectively wanders, with Adasiewicz
creating a moody atmosphere that floats as his
vibes wash away.
Word is it that Shelton has recently moved to the West Coast. While this is a loss for
Chicago’s active scene, let’s hope that Shelton
continued his creative journey that has begun
with this excellent date.
Artists
