Darren Barrett takes a side trip to delve into the innovations of Nyle Steiner, creator of the EWI, popularized by such innovators as Michael Brecker. Clocking in at under a half hour, The EVI Sessions: Mr. Steiner is more EP than LP.
The trumpeter includes three short tunes meant to explore the capabilities of the electronic valve instrument or EVI, a brass player’s answer to the more popular EWI – both of which were developed by Nyle Steiner. Barrett’s title track explores the chording capability and some of the sounds the EVI can create, ending with a short trumpet solo.
“Nu Vibrations” finds guitar lines riding atop the background of processed voices and EVI. The concluding “EVI Theme #1” is an uptempo romp, a power trio of sorts with bass, drums and EVI. All three are enjoyable, though they end just when it sounds like they are hitting their stride.
Of the actual songs, among the most successful are “Only You Know,” “dB Plus KG” and “Deal For Real.” Darren Barrett told Jazziz that he wrote the first with a film scoring scene in mind, and it’s indeed cinematic feeling.
“dB Plus KG” finds Barrett in the company of saxophonist Kenny Garrett, who played on Barrett’s first album in 1999. It’s a gently swaying tune, with Barrett’s EVI sounding less jokey and more melodic. Garrett’s soprano is gentle most of the time, and strident when it needs to be.
[SOMETHING ELSE! INTERVIEW: David Greenberg is joined by saxophonist Kenny Garrett to discuss carrying the spirit of John Coltrane, and taking his audience on a journey.]
“Deal For Real” features Barrett on EVI, keyboardist Santiago Bosch and guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel. Bosch solos on electric piano, with the otherworldly sounds coming from EVI. Or synthesizer. Or guitar – as if it really matters.
“You See Me” is probably the standout track. An electronic ballad, Barrett’s EVI lead lines are often doubled by guitar, while the backing keyboards shape and support the leader. Apparently only available in a digital format, Darren Barrett’s The EVI Sessions: Mr. Steiner is an interesting album, though a bit more melody and less weirdness would have been welcome.
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