Brian Soundy's UK Jazz Radio CD of the Year
Selecting a CD of the year is not an easy job. What criteria does one use, what direction should one go and above all, just how, from the thousands of CDs that have passed over my desk in the past year, does one construct a shortlist.
At the time the Impossible Gentlemen's CD was released there was a whole host of excellent CDs Coming onto the market which made the task that much harder, But, I came back to the Impossible Gentlemen's CD time and time again.
When programming UK Jazz Radio, I attempt to play not only the best and interesting CDs around but also jazz that will be enjoyed by the majority of our listeners. The Impossible Gentlemen's CD, by way of the varying tracks offered , ticked every box. The musicianship is second to none, the compositions are well crafted,interesting, beautifully arranged and recorded and covers most genres.
I don't like drawing parallels when reviewing a CD and don't think it is helpful in coming to a conclusion. I think this CD is Fresh and very now and with the pedigree of the musicians cant be anything else that an excellent CD. There is, though, something else in this CD that made me listen a number of times. That something else is the magic that makes an excellent CD into a CD that will stand the test of time....I think this CD has just that....
From the opening track, Laugh Lines, a Mike Walker composition, a skilful up-tempo number through another Mike Walker composition, Clockmaker, a beautifully arranged and played ballad to, Sure Would Baby from Drummer Adam Nussbaum,a composition with strong Rock Jazz influences, every track is a joy for the ears.
So for this years UK Jazz Radio's and the first CD of the Year on Europe Jazz Radio, The Impossible Gentlemen is a truly worthy recipient.
Brian Soundy (UK Jazz Radio)