Thomas, Leon Foster: Metamorphosis

Born in the Caribbean, now residing in Miami, Leon Foster Thomas has recently released his new disc Metamorphosis on Ropeadope Records. Foster plays the steel pan and plays it very well. The notes he gets out of his instrument is really quite stunning and is a perfect fit for his version of island jazz. This is one of those albums that will put a smile on your face. Nothing brooding and introspective here, just ten tracks that beckon to be listened to.

The band has plenty of energy to spare and show it on the opening track "Kai - Fusion". The music is vibrant with that Caribbean flare that is so infectious and the sax and guitar solos are top notch. "Midnight Refrain" is another breezy upbeat affair while "Gulf Of Paria" begins like a traditional jazz track tune with sentimental piano and a sumptuous bass line before returning to that island feel. "In The Corner" is a dreamier track before the band really starts to cook up a storm as does his steel pan solo in "Unknown Memory".

Foster and his band have made a fine album with Metamorphosis. Whether you dig solos or great melodies in your jazz, this album should totally satisfy. Recommended.

Band members:
Leon Foster Thomas (steel pan, percussion)
Martin Bejerano (piano)
Kurt Hengstebeck (upright and electric bass)
Michael Piolet (drums)
Jean Caze (trumpet)
David Palma (tenor saxophone, flute)
Fernando Ulibarri (guitar)
John Daversa (trumpet, evi)
Sammy Figueroa (percussion)

Track Listing:
1. Kai – Fusion (7:28)
2. Midnight Refrain (7:26)
3. Gulf Of Paria (6:24)
4. In The Corner (6:06)
5. Delusion Of A Dream (7:07)
6. Unknown Memory (6:46)
7. Dubplate Swing (4:04)
8. Take A Bow (Tribute To Nelson Mandela) (8:21)
9. A Whiter Shade Of Pale (6:03)
10. Cry Of Hope (10:00)

Added: September 12th 2016
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 2035
Language: english

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