Vincent Herring - The Uptown Shuffle (2014)

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Vincent Herring - The Uptown Shuffle (2014)

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Following on the heels of their vinyl sampler and an introductory set by pianist Harold Mabern, comes The Uptown Shuffle by alto saxophonist Vincent Herring. This nine-track recital offers a smattering of Herring originals along with some well-chosen standards. Herring's choice of bandmates is nothing short of top shelf, with pianist Cyrus Chestnut and drummer Joe Farnsworth locking in with up and comer Brandi Disterheft on bass. A native of Vancouver, Disterheft has three albums of her own and has been actively making a name for herself here in the States the past few years.
The opening "Elation" is a Herring original of the modal variety with plenty of up tempo fire and panache to go around. Herring's tone has matured over the years and now has a stronger core tone, not unlike that of Kenny Garrett. For "Love Walked In," Herring recalls Lou Donaldson with his buttery tone and rhythmic swagger. Chestnut's original, "Uptown Shuffle" is feel good music of the best kind with a substantive solo from its composer. A master of brisk tempos, Farnsworth makes "Strike Up the Band" bristle with excitement. Check out the Phineas Newborn quote from Chestnut that ushers in a brief series of exchanges with Farnsworth to hear how well this rhythm section collates into a unified whole. A favorite Duke Pearson ditty, "Big Bertha," wraps up the proceedings on a joyous note, making this one of Herrings best presentations to date. (C. Andrew Hovan)