By Esther Callens
One of jazz’s most prolific artist is set to release his most defining work in retail on October 15th. Sabotage and Celebrate is title of this remarkable recording by famed pianist and composer, John Escreet. Exhibiting a truly stellar performance, John Escreet’s latest paints a perfect picture of just how masterful he really is – a true genius ahead of the time.
Debuting on Whirlwind Recording, Sabotage and Celebration is Escreet’s fifth release. Pouring even more energy and enthusiasm into this project, he has proven that jazz is an ever evolving process for him – a change that Escreet seems to welcome with each new venture. It is not a mystery that Sabotage and Celebration was recorded the day after the 2012 Presidential election. Escreet states of the election night – “We were performing literally as the results were coming in, amidst an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty, and then amidst as atmosphere of celebration as the results became apparent and was eventually announced.” He further states of the title track “in the early stages of that piece there is all kinds of musical ‘madness’ taking place sounding almost as if someone is trying to sabotage the music. This eventually transitions into a contrasting second section, which sounds like a celebratory dance. But more importantly, the title also refers to some of the attempted sabotage that took place during the election – and then the celebration.”
Escreet is joined by David Binney, Chris Potter, Matt Brewer and Jim Black. They implement seven bold compositions on Sabotage and Celebration that shift easily from placid (“Laura Angela”) to passionate (“He Who Dares”). The album closer, “Beyond Your Wildest Dream” is a wonderful progressive track that Escreet pulls out all the stops on. All the fantastic music on Sabotage and Celebration was written one week before it was recorded. John Escreet is a virtual talent – all this from a pianist/composer/bandleader who is nearly 30.
Track listings: “Axis of Hope”, “He Who Dares”, “Sabotage and Celebration”, “The Decapitator”, “Laura Angela”, “Animal Style” and “Beyond Your Wildest Dreams.”
