Fuller Nelson

SSC1134 2004-06-08

Track List

The Second Time Around - 8:17
Kirk'S New Delight - 7:32
I Don'T Stand A Ghost Of A Chance With You - 10:29
Song For Justine - 7:06
Easy To Love - 6:27
Heaven Dance - 7:06
Minor Blues - 5:21
For Wes - 5:07
Original #2 - 1:38
Laila In Blues - 6:22

Musicians

Steve Nelson - vibraphone
Ray Drummond - bass
Kirk Lightsey - piano

The music of the wonderful trio of Steve Nelson, Kirk Lightsey and Ray Drummond that initially recorded together on the Sunnyside record Full Nelson, and is reunited on this encore outing, can be said to be even more exquisite than ever before. These days Nelson is widely acknowledged as one of the preeminent modernist improvisors of this generation on his chosen instrument (primarily for his highly recognized role as a senior member of Dave Holland’s award winning quintet and big band), so the issue of this disc, which highlights the depth of his roots in the jazz tradition, will serve as a timely reminder of the strength of his background to those who are not completely familiar with his resume.

These days Nelson is widely acknowledged as one of the pre-eminent modernist improvisors of this generation on his chosen instrument (primarily for his highly recognized role as a senior member of Dave Holland’s award winning quintet and big band), so the issue of this disc, which highlights the depth of his roots in the jazz tradition, will serve as a timely reminder of the strength of his background to those who are not completely familiar with his resume. Recorded nearly ten years after Full Nelson, this date truly lives up to the superlative of its title in demonstrating the more developed artistry of its leader and the increased cohesiveness of the trio.
At the time of this recording Kirk Lightsey was probably the most recognized name in the trio, familiar to most jazz connoisseurs for his tenure with tenor great Dexter Gordon. Unfortunately, since expatriating to Paris the pianist is no longer as well known among audiences as his talent merits, so the inclusion of his two compositions, Heaven Dance (the title track of the Sunnyside release by the Leaders Trio) and Laila In Blues, on the disc, along with his exemplary playing throughout the date, serve as a reminder of just how sorely his charismatic talent is missed.
Ray Drummond remains one of the most in demand bassists on the jazz scene today, although he is no longer the mainstay he was in New York due to his increasing responsibilities as an educator in California. His warm sound, rich notes and soulful spirit contribute greatly to the success of the music. He is also owed a debt of gratitude for his role in instigating the rewarding reunion of this magnificent trio that first came together in the sorely missed legendary hallowed hall of Bradley’s in New York’s Greenwich Village.