Basil Hodge - A Point Of Reference

ZEAL RECORDS

£13.75

Cat. no: ZEALCD003
Format: CD
Barcode: 5081304459119
Release Date: 19 Nov 2021
Genre: Jazz

Jazz pianist and composer Basil Hodge has been a mainstay of the British Jazz scene since the early nineties but came to real prominence following the release of his highly acclaimed debut album My Guardian Angel in 2003

'A Point of Reference' contains eight of Basil's typically well- crafted and varied compositions plus two covers. You will hear the power of the quartet on the track 'Deep Down' the melodic Bossa Nova/ Latin numbers, some funk with the classic Fender Rhodes sound and a couple of trio performances that highlight the delicate and softer side of both Basil's compositions and piano style. The musicians featured on 'A Point of Reference' were hand-picked by Basil and have played together since 2019. Ed Jones' strong sound on both tenor and soprano saxophones and his experience in performing in diverse musical situations is evident with his excellent solos throughout the album. Likewise, Winston Clifford a drummer that is able to swing hard but can play all the other grooves with equal facility. Bass player Olli Hayhurst provides the foundation to the performances with his big and distinctive sound. The leader as one would expect plays with an assurance and fluidity on all the selections where one can hear the styles of Bud Powell, Wynton Kelly and McCoy Tyner in is own unique voice.

The compositions on 'A Point of Reference' demonstrate Basil's musical influences. It offers something to everyone, yet it remains cohesive, fresh and exciting.

Personnel: Basil Hodge (piano/Rhodes), Ed Jones (tenor/soprano saxophones), Oli Hayhurst (double bass), Winston Clifford (drums)

Tracks: Hanging Out / Deep Down / Paixao / Back To Where It Came From / A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square / Phoebe's Samba / Common Ground / Port Louis / Diminishing Returns / Until Next Time