Here are what some of the critics are saying about Stretching Supreme (2022, Dave Wilson Music)
“A sax bad boy that knows his stuff pays tribute to Coltrane and doing a fine job interpreting music that lives on
60 years later…Count on this journey through the past to hit all the right notes at every turn.”
-Chris Spector, Midwest Record
“An excellent CD, fully worthy of the one to whom most of the music is dedicated. Wilson was able to achieve
Trane’s massive tone, and he really has managed to duplicate his rich, vibrato less sound on tenor, which is a
miracle in itself.”
-The Art Music Lounge, by Lynn Rene Bayley
“Wilson and his teammates are clearly invested in the enterprise, musically and emotionally… there is enticing
jazz to be uncorked here and handsome solos.”
-All About Jazz by Jack Bowers
“Dave Wilson’s post-bop flavored presentation showcases his love of John Coltrane’s influence and skills, but
clearly spotlights Wilson’s own dexterity and style on woodwinds. You will enjoy his free form exploration of
this music, especially on his singular, original composition… an innovative project that I enjoyed from start to
finish.”
-Musical Memoirs, by Dee Dee McNeil https://musicalmemoirs.wordpress.com/
“Saxophonist/composer/educator Dave Wilson pays tribute to his hero John Coltrane in his own seventh album
as a leader. Stretching Supreme, self-released on January 7, features live quartet renditions ot tunes traversing
several periods of Coltrane’s profoundly influential career, recorded in October 2017 and March 2018. Order it
here.”
-Jazziz Magazine New Releases Cheat Sheet: New Albums
The Dave Wilson Quartet, Stretching Supreme (Dave Wilson)
announcing release January 7th (From Republic Of Jazz)
http://republicofjazz.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-dave-wilson-quartet-stretching.html
“Wilson digs deep, finding the spiritual core of these pieces. The final notes from Wilson’s tenor are
spellbindingly beautiful. These performances somehow channel that special spiritual touch that continues to
draw so many of us to Coltrane’s sound now almost sixty years later. Thankfully it was preserved for us to
appreciate beyond the fortunate patrons of Chris’ Jazz Café, who witnessed a truly special performance.”
-Making a Scene by Jim Hynes
“Wonderfully and imaginatively played with a first rate band, “Stretching Supreme” showcases Dave Wilson’s
personal vision of one of his main musical inspirations.”
-Jazz & Blues Report by Ron Weinstock
“Fantastic stuff… music of possibilities and joy.”
Music Log by Michael Doherty
“Stretching Supreme” by The Dave Wilson Quartet, is so much more than just a tribute to the master. “A Love
Supreme,” arguably ‘Trane’s greatest work, leads off this gem of a project as a three-track suite. Wilson, on
tenor and soprano, blows his sax like a man possessed…and he is. He has somehow excavated the essence of
the originator into his own soul and with piano/bass/drums backing him up, flies into the stratosphere like no
one in years.”
-Goldmine Magazine by Mike Greenblatt
“…Coltrane’s music brings out the emotional intensity and spirituality
in Wilson’s playing. He gets into ‘the zone” without being imitative.”
makingascene.org
The Independent Music Magazine
“A fascinating, hard hitting and vibrantly performed tribute to John Coltrane… he brings a sense of liberation and
sacredness to Stretching Supreme – which honors his hero with equal amounts of reverie and raw intensity.”
JW Vibe by Jonathan Widran
Here are what some of the critics are saying about One Night At Chris’ (2019, Dave Wilson Music)
Matt Silver for WRTI Jazz Radio in Philadelphia:
Jazz Album of the Week: It All Comes Together for The Dave Wilson Quartet One Night at Chris’s
August 26, 2019. …if the aim is to recreate a sophisticated evening of live jazz in the comfort of your own home,
you really can’t beat One Night at Chris’s, the fifth recording from The Dave Wilson Quartet. Recorded before a
live audience at Chris’s Jazz Café, Philadelphia’s longstanding jazz club par excellence, One Night at Chris’s
accomplishes all you could want from a live recording: genre-bending covers and bold originals, a fusion of the
straight ahead and the slightly more avant-garde, and easy chemistry between a great group of musicians, each
of whom are playing at or near their best.
Dick Metcalf (AKA Rotcod Zzaj) /Contemporary Fusion Reviews
Stunning live saxophone jazz The Dave Wilson Quartet – ONE NIGHT AT CHRIS’: I first reviewed Dave’s
stunning live saxophone jazz way back in issue # 106, where he got a “PICK” for “best jazz quartet”… his new
album brings you even hipper jazz (if that’s possible)… Dave’s swingin’ original “Ocean Blues“, is the opener for
the album, and the depth of his talent becomes totally clear… I’ve no doubt this tune will be getting MAJOR
rotations on jazz stations ’round the globe (for years & years to come)!...this new release digs even deeper into
the cool that Dave & his players make happen for you… and all the players are just “ON”… if I were on the panels
voting for jazz winners, this tune would be nominated & WIN awards…I give Dave & his players a MOST
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED rating, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) score of 4.99 for this great jazz release.
From CHRIS SPECTOR, Editor and Publisher, Midwestrecord.com.
“DAVE WILSON QUARTET/One Night at Chris’: A protean sax man that can lead his crew through anything,
he smokes on originals and covers that you wouldn’t think fit the format—-but they do. Lively and crackling,
they are turned on by the live Philly audience and make sure they heat up the night properly. Tasty stuff that
makes you wish you were there.”
Vittorio Lo Conte, www.musiczoom.it
“"It was a good night" and for this simple reason the recording of the concert has now been published on disc.
Dave Wilson's quartet is in a state of grace, full of energy, a continuous flow of ideas from one piece to another.
Dave Wilson's quartet is in a state of grace, full of energy, a continuous flow of ideas from one piece to
another….The disc works to perfection showing how jazz, made by inspired musicians, can engulf material that
comes from the world of pop and current rock without giving up the swing.”
Dodie Miller-Gould, lemonwire.com:
The Dave Wilson Quartet mixes things up on “One Night at Chris'” “…What is noteworthy is the choice of songs
that The Dave Wilson Quartet have covered. All of the cover songs are unexpected. Each offers listeners a bit of
insight into the style and perhaps the inspiration of the quartet members…The songs included on “One Night at
Chris'” have been captured in one take – – no overdubs, no retakes. The result is a recording that crackles with
liveliness and a verve that resonates with the traditions of jazz, even when the group is taking on songs that are
from rock and pop traditions….
Jim Hynes, www.makingascene.org
“…This is a great fusion of straight-ahead and exploratory jazz, highly accessible, and packed full of the energy
one expects in a live recording.”
Joe Ross, Roots Music Report:
“Bands occasionally have a terrible night or encounter the dreaded “gig from hell.” On the other hand, well-
rehearsed groups also have exceptional nights when everything clicks. The Dave Wilson Quartet experienced
the latter when they played Chris’ Jazz Café in Philadelphia in March 2018…While the quartet really spotlights
Dave Wilson’s sax, he and Kirk Reese (piano) trade lyrical improvised expressions, with colorful shading and
distinctive twists, in this quartet’s very pleasant set of jazz.
Grady Harp, Hall of Fame Top 100 Reviewer:
“Dave Wilson, a prominent jazz saxophonist/band leader/composer/educator in the Pennsylvania area, brings
his quartet’s recording a sense of immediacy…
Fine sound from fine musicians with the added excitement of a live performance!”
DOUG MACDONALD, Jazz CD News/Reviews: The Audiophile Man:
“…Smooth but still crackling with energy, at ease but still ‘on’ the occasion, Wilson’s mob offers patterns of
complexity that dance around the central themes. Playful too –…Clever stuff.”
Here are what some of the critics said about "There Was Never" (Released in 2016, ZOHO Music)
From Downbeat Magazine, February 2016, Josef Woodard
Dave Wilson Quartet, There Was Never (Zoho 201512; 65:34 +++) With his fourth album, Dave Wilson, on
tenor and
soprano saxophones, puts a strong foot forward, backed by a tight and raring-to-go rhythm section of young
pianist
Bobby Avey, bassist Tony Marino and drummer Alex Ritz. From the tricky, pulsing energy of the opening “The
Time
Has Come,” on which the saxophonist brandishes his big tone and easily tumbling facility, to the simple folk
theme of
“On The Prairie,” There Was Never makes a varied and mostly powerful impact.
——————————————————————-
Dave Wilson: There Was Never (2015)
By DAN BILAWSKY, for All About Jazz
Published: December 25, 2015
Saxophonist Dave Wilson cuts an imposing figure on the cover of There Was Never, his fourth album in total
and his
first on the Zoho Music imprint. There's intensity fixed on his face, with eyes closed in concentration and
embouchure
set for attack. And then there's his tenor saxophone. It has a larger than life presence in the photo. This is the
picture
of a man on a mission, a leader who knows what he wants, a musician who knows how to handle his horn. The
music,
thankfully, says the exact same thing(s).
Wilson, a fixture on the Pennsylvania jazz scene, has focused on the quartet format with all of his albums—
Through
The Time (Self Produced, 2002), My Time (DreamBox Media, 2006), Spiral (Summit Records, 2010), and this
engrossing date. But that doesn't mean he's settled on a formula. Quite the contrary, in fact. Wilson is still
working
things out, trying new things, and altering lineups. He's finding different ways to explore the most familiar of
formats
and he sounds great doing it. Here, he teams with rising star pianist Bobby Avey, a bold adventurer who
dissects
harmonies and grooves in unexpected ways; drummer Alex Ritz, a firm yet malleable presence behind the kit;
and
Tony Marino, a ballasting bassist who happens to be the only holdover from Wilson's previous outing. They
make for a
strong grouping, a bit more unpredictable and restless than the band that appeared on Spiral.
The album kicks off with "The Time Has Come," a tilted Afro-Cuban winner that finds Wilson marking his
territory with
some assertive blowing and Avey delivering a choppy statement of his own. Wilson then switches to soprano
for a
jammy jaunt through The Grateful Dead's "Cassidy" and a euphonious "God Only Knows" that wisely avoids
complication. From there he further diversifies. There's a groove-morphing "There Was Never," a song based on
"There
Will Never Be Another You" that keeps the rhythmic change-ups coming; a vibrant "Smooth Sailing," singing
and
rolling along with calypso-ish glee; "Master Plan," a number that juxtaposes Coltrane-esque intensity against
an open
framework that's more in keeping with Ornette Coleman's work; and a Brazilian-based "Feeling Peaceful," a
number
that's far more mutable than your typical beach-friendly bossa nova.
These are protean players who take joy in stretching an idea, but they never completely upend the music. They
create
squalls and then weather them together. The final two tracks on the album—a 12/8 rewrite on "Summertime"
that's
more fire music than spiritual and a free jazz finale dubbed "On The Prairie"—simply further the notion that
Dave
Wilson is anything but set in his ways. There Was Never is as complete a musical statement as you can come
by these
days. Dull moments seem to be the only thing missing from this package.
Track Listing: The Time Has Come; Cassidy; God Only Knows; There Was Never; Smooth Sailing; Master Plan;
Feeling
Peaceful; Summertime; On The Prairie.
Personnel: Dave Wilson: tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone; Bobby Avey: piano; Tony Marino: acoustic bass;
Alex
Ritz: drums.
Record Label: Zoho Music
——————————————————————————————-
CD Review: http://www.audaud.com/2015/12/dave-wilson-quartet-there-was-never-zoho/
Dave Wilson Quartet – There Was Never – Zoho
Jazz CD Reviews
Saxophonist Wilson effortlessly moves from emotional aspects to abstract elements.
Published on December 28, 2015
Dave Wilson Quartet – There Was Never [TrackList follows] – Zoho ZM 201512, 65:33 (11/6/15) ****:
(Dave Wilson – tenor, soprano saxophone, producer; Bobby Avey – piano; Tony Marino – acoustic bass; Alex
Ritz –
drums)
When it’s cool outside, you can warm up with saxophonist Dave Wilson. Wilson’s latest outing, the hour-long
There
Was Never, arrives five years after his previous effort, Spiral (2010), and as usual his music boils and simmers,
and is
always as embracing as a hot toddy or heated apple cider (or wassail). On Spiral, Wilson led a quartet through
scintillating originals and atypical covers. Wilson follows a similar path with his new material, which comprises
six
originals and three interpretive tracks. This time, Wilson uses pianist Bobby Avey, drummer Alex Ritz and
bassist Tony
Marino (who was on Spiral). Ritz, Avey and Marino are also members of Dave Liebman’s Expansions band,
which
means there’s a lot of simpatico communication.
There’s plenty of instinctive liveliness on the seven-minute opener, “The Time Has Come,” which is fronted by
Wilson’s
commanding tenor sax. If a listener thinks of Trane, there’s a reason. Wilson acknowledges in the liner notes (via
a
Bill Milkowski interview), “John Coltrane was the guy that got me into playing the saxophone. He was really one
of
the first jazz musicians I heard and the most influential person I listened to.” Near the halfway mark, Avey
provides a
bristly solo; and throughout Ritz stirs things up on the 12/8 groove. Wilson shows another side to his
composing and
playing on the record’s lengthiest cut, “Master Plan,” which includes some of Wilson’s most impressive sax
work.
Wilson admits Ornette Coleman was a partial stimulus on this composition. The intricate arrangement, Wilson
explains, is “basically a concept where the head has a mixed meter, going back and forth between 3/4 and 4/4,
and
the solos happen going in and out of a B pedal tone in the bass.” Notably, there are no harmonic chord changes,
so
everyone solos with abandon. If that description sounds unorthodox, it is, but no fear, this tune swings while
remaining a platform for Wilson’s spacious soloing. Avey also shines here, swelling to an intense climax and
then
slowing to supply spiky single notes.
A friendly feeling suffuses some numbers. The melodically genial and upbeat “Smooth Sailing” has a
comfortable
calypso seasoning, and is a nod to Wilson’s love for being out on the water where propulsion comes from a
welcoming wind. Wilson tacks along on tenor, while the rhythm section furnishes a suitably fluid flow. During
“Smooth Sailing,” Ritz delivers a distinctive drum solo in the middle portion, and during the second half Wilson
quotes from musical sources which astute listeners might identify. “Feeling Peaceful” cruises with a supple
bossa
nova ambiance. One of this track’s highlights is Marino’s sinuous bass improvisation.
On the other hand, anyone who expects a quiet, mellow vibe on the Gershwinstandard, “Summetime,” will be in
for a
surprise. This eight-minute adaptation takes the well-known composition into some uninhibited areas. Wilson
reveals
in the CD’s booklet, “I love to play free utilizing overtones and harmonics. In this sense, not only Trane but
Pharoah
Sanders was a big influence on me.” Wilson further clarifies, “though he’s great at honking and screaming,
[Sanders is]
also a very melodic and spiritual player. And I try to incorporate both aspects in this tune.” The quartet really
stretches out on this reimagined rendition, and Wilson in particular unleashes an outpouring of magic on his
tenor,
covering the instrument’s tonal range. “Summertime” has also become an audience favorite. This and other live
performances from There Was Never can be experienced on Wilson’s website.
The album’s other two covers are also superb. Wilson is an avowed Grateful Deadfan. On Spiral he translated
the
group’s “Friend of the Devil.” On this CD, Wilson dives deep into “Cassidy,” co-written by the Dead’s Bob Weir
(it
debuted up on a Weir solo LP before being added to the Dead’s live repertoire). Wilson switches to soprano
sax,
which brings a lighter but not necessarily an easy tone to the tune. Deadheads may not immediately recognize
(or
even enjoy) “Cassidy,” because Wilson re-arranges it, and also since the soloing and improvisations twist in and
out
from the melody and harmony. Wilson states he wanted to “create a collective/jam type of improvisation.” He
admirably succeeds due to the involved interplay between the four players, which extends far past the Dead’s
inspiration and into music which is Wilson’s own. Wilson also uses soprano sax on Brian Wilson’s lyrically
thoughtful,
“God Only Knows,” a memorable song from the Beach Boys’ 1966 masterpiece, Pet Sounds. Wilson and the
group
maintain the wonderful melodic theme, but integrate a solo section in the middle, plus slip in some delightful
melodic changes. “God Only Knows” is the record’s most expressive and poignant statement. At the album’s
conclusion, Wilson returns to soprano on the engaging and explorative “On the Prairie,” which combines plenty
of
extemporaneous inventiveness with a transcendent characteristic, and the quartet deftly moves from emotional
qualities to nearly abstract ones. [Only MP3 versions at Amazon at this time.]
TrackList: The Time Has Come, Cassidy, God Only Knows, There Was Never, Smooth Sailing, Master Plan,
Feeling
Peaceful, Summertime, On the Prairie.
—Doug Simpson
————————————————————————————————————————-
By: Carol Banks Weber AXS Contributor Nov 24, 2015
Dave Wilson Quartet: ‘There Was Never’ preserves melody inside ultimate jazz
In central Pennsylvania, there lives a saxophonist named Dave Wilson who can make notes on a page jump and
jive
with the best of ‘em. He may be situated in the East Coast/Delaware Valley — a local hero — but he’s crossed
paths
with major jazz stars.
The Bronxville, NY-born Wilson went out on his own after leaning heavily on the legendary chops of trumpeter
Dave
Stahl and his Sacred Orchestra/Big Band. As a thriving member of Stahl’s bands, Wilson got to learn even
more, on-
the-job, with these great jazz giants — guys like trombonist Conrad Herwig, Journey drummer Steve Smith,
Wynton
Marsalis, and Blood, Sweat & Tears’ Lew Soloff.
Wilson released his own albums with his own band on Through The Time, My Time, and Spiral. All three
albums
showcased Wilson and his band’s navigation ability through original compositions and original comping on
tried-and-
true material — the hallmarks of jazz.
Not only that, but Wilson’s creative improvisation earned a place in the local/national radio rotation and even
notice
on Jazz Week’s charts, DownBeat and Jazz Times reviews.
There Was Never came out on November 6, 2015. The Zoho Music release pumps up lively jams with Wilson
and his
working Quartet, pianist Bobby Avey, drummer Alex Ritz, and acoustic bassist Tony Marino.
Of the nine songs listed on this album, three are some of the most interesting covers around, a reflection of
Wilson’s
own eclectic taste: the Grateful Dead’s “Cassidy,” Gershwin’s “Summertime,” and Beach Boys’ “God Only
Knows.”
The interest is in Wilson’s reinterpretation of the known classics, two of them in decidedly jazz-unorthodox
genres.
On sax, Wilson seems to bury the melody in the rapturous avant-garde-pushing intro until he steals the most
romantic number back in his elongated solo, tripping over himself to do the original justice.
Instead of gutting the familiar melody, he drapes it with new appeal, layering his love and devotion in the
particular,
romanticizing notes of his sax.
He sustains the appeal of the Grateful Dead for a lot of confused non-believers in his cover of “Cassidy.” Most
people
think of the Grateful Dead as a band for potheads.
Wilson hears deeper. Again, he contains the heart of the melody and the playfulness of this legendary rock
band,
building it up into this mythic beast, before carving out jazz soundscapes from the falling pieces.
Wilson’s own composition, “Smooth Sailing,” is some of his best work. Everyone comes here to play, and thank
god,
because the rhythmic section — percussion on top of bass on top of piano punked out — just releases
everything in
this party in a song, a swirling mass of Latin, old fashioned calliope, that romantic saxophone tang.
The title track also bursts at the seams with high-energy ensemble work, brimming over with a toughness Vital
Information’s Steve Smith might vibe with, never leaving that palpable, heat-seeking beat.
Dave Wilson plays both tenor and soprano effectively on this new album, never getting lost in the
characteristics of
each for the charisma of his own innate personality oozing through the stylized aspect of the former, and the
folk
whimsy of the latter.
————————————————————————————————————————————
http://blogcritics.org/music-review-jazz-potpourri-joe-alterman-the-dave-wilson-quartet-clare-fischer/
Joe Alterman Dave Wilson Quartet – There Was Never
Saxophonist Dave Wilson’s foursome features Bobby Avey on piano, Tony Marino on acoustic bass, and Alex
Ritz on
drums on his November 2015 release, There Was Never. Wilson leads the ensemble through a varied nine-
song set
highlighting six original pieces, two rock tunes, and one classic standard.
The title tune based on the standard “There Will Never Be Another You,” is an arrangement that introduces the
set’s
varied palate as it moves from Afro-Cuban rhythms to funk, to swing, and back to the Latin vibe. “Smooth
Sailing” is a
spiced calypso feel, while “Master Plan” and the album’s closer “On the Prairie” are free jazz explorations.
Wilson plays soprano sax on “Cassidy,” The Grateful Dead stalwart, and does a lyrical treatment of Brian
Wilson’s “God
Only Knows.” His tenor work on Gershwin’s “Summertime” is effectively intense, as is Avey’s on piano. All in all,
There
Was Never is an album with a lot to discover.
—————————————————————————————————————————-
Dave Wilson Quartet – There Was Never – Zoho
by Audiophile Audition/ December 29, 2015/ Jazz CD Reviews
Saxophonist Wilson effortlessly moves from emotional aspects to abstract elements.
Dave Wilson Quartet – There Was Never [TrackList follows] – Zoho ZM 201512, 65:33 (11/6/15) ****:
(Dave Wilson – tenor, soprano saxophone, producer; Bobby Avey – piano; Tony Marino – acoustic bass; Alex
Ritz –
drums)
———————————————————————————————————————————-
Fly Magazine (Lancaster, Pa) 12/3/2105
The Dave Wilson Quartet puts on a hell of a show. The audience at any given performance benefits from the
swing-
flavored ensemble’s more than twenty years of experience playing all around the PA jazz circuit. In the time
since
forming, they’ve become regulars on the PA jazz circuit, as well as favorites in several clubs across the area.
—————————————————————————————————————————————
Here are what some of the critics said about "Spiral" (Released in 2010)
Spiral Review published in Downbeat Magazine (November, 2010)-John Ephland
***1/2 (3 and ½ stars)
“With a crack band in pianist Phil Markowitz, bassist Tony Marino and Adam Nussbaum on drums,
saxophonist Dave
Wilson knows how to pick them and the music. Actually, most of these 11 tunes are Wilson's, with a few of the
covers
suggesting eclecticism: Toninho Horta's "Francisca" and the Grateful Dead classic "Friend Of The Devil".
Eclectic because, as far as jazz albums go, Spiral is pretty standard, straightahead fare, sparked by Wilson's
edgy
yet loose tenor playing along with vivid comping and soloing by Markowitz, sold support from Marino and
sensitive
yet fiery playing from the always reliable Nussbaum. The Title track is an uptempo swinger with a catchy
melody
hinged on two chords and great playing all around. Wilson's "Movin' On", to take another example, is a good
spot to
hear the saxophonist's lyrical yet burly tone on this medium-slow swinger, Markowitz's piano adding its own
lyrical
sheen while Marino and Nussbaum channel their respective Jimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones vibes. Wilson's
"Like GS
2" (the title is a reference to Scott LaFaro's "Gloria's Step", the song a reworking) is a light trio excursion,
featuring the
leader's Warne Marsh-like playing with Marino getting some room to solo against Nussbaum's tasty
brushwork. This
swinger indicates a band comfort level both wide and deep.”
Spiral Review published in JazzTimes Magazine (December, 2010)-Bill Milkowski
With stellar support from Pianist Phil Markowitz, Bassist Tony Marino, and drummer Adam Nussbaum,
Pennsylvania-
based saxophonist-educator Dave Wilson elevates his game and blows with authority on this collection of
originals
and smartly plucked covers. From the aggressive title track (with Wilson channeling his inner Trane on tenor) to
the
soothing bossa nova “Ocean Blue”, the expansive modal number “Movin’ On” and an intriguing variation on
Scott
LaFaro’s “Gloria’s Step” (titled “Like GS Step 2”) the saxophonist showcases a bold sound, fertile ideas, and fluid
lines.
Also included are spirited covers of the Grateful Dead’s “Friend of the Devil” and Creed’s “My Own Prison”.
-CD Review: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=37140
By Karl Ackermann-All About Jazz
“Wilson's compositions and covers reflect an eclectic approach, featuring ballads, Latin influences, free
improvisation
and mainstream jazz. Wilson's and his quartet may well have produced their breakout effort with Spiral; a
potpourri
of jazz styles from sometimes unlikely sources, it nevertheless flows and holds together, thanks to the multiple
skills
of Wilson and his band... Should it appear that cover arrangements are the highlights of Spiral, rest assured that
they
are just part of the overall package. Wilson's own contributions account for more than half the numbers and
they
measure up across the board. Whether the focus is on melody or free improvisation, Wilson is more than up to
the
task and could not have found a more empathetic collaborator than Markowitz. Spiral is an inventive, high-
energy
collection with a number of very accessible compositions that should propel Wilson's career as a leader.”
CD Reviews: http://www.jsojazzscene.org/cdreviews.htm
by George Fendel
“If might be said that Dave Wilson represents a new segment of jazz musicians who test the ears of the listener
nearly exclusively through their own compositions. Wilson has roots in Coltrane, but I found his actual tenor
sound to
have earlier influences as well…his compositions…test your ability to determine a melody line. ...there’s a very
urban,
brawny sound that he seems to favor. For this recording, Wilson enlisted some top echelon talent in Phil
Markewitz,
piano, Tony Martino, bass, and Adam Nussbaum, drums. If you’re looking for Zoot, Ben or Getz, this won’t be
you
entree, but if you like being inside the outside, these guys dig pretty deep.”
-CD Reviews: http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:0jfyxzysldfe
by Alex Henderson-allmusic.com
“When an album includes songs by the Grateful Dead, Creed, and Ambrosia, the phrase "instrumental,
acoustic-
oriented post-bop jazz" usually isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But tenor/soprano saxophonist Dave
Wilson's
Spiral is, in fact, an instrumental, acoustic-oriented post-bop jazz album that includes songs by the Grateful
Dead,
Creed, and Ambrosia — and the impressive thing is that Wilson's jazz mentality is as strong on the rock and
pop/rock
material as it is on the original compositions that dominate this 2009 recording….But Spiral isn't smooth jazz;
Wilson
gets his inspiration from post-bop saxophonists like Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane, and Joe Henderson (with a
healthy
appreciation of Michael Brecker as well). And when he tackles the Grateful Dead's "Friend of the Devil," Creed's
"My
Own Prison," and Ambrosia's "Biggest Part of Me," Wilson isn't playing the type of vapid, note-for-note covers
one
associates with Dave Koz, Richard Elliot or the late George Howard….Wilson (who forms a quartet with pianist
Phil
Markowitz, bassist Tony Marino, and drummer Adam Nussbaum) seriously interprets those three tunes, and his
solos
are equally introspective on six original compositions and a memorable arrangement of Brazilian star Toninho
Horta's
"Francisca." The fact that Wilson can take songs from Bay Area jam band country-rock, post-grunge, alternative
rock,
soft rock/adult contemporary, and Brazilian jazz-pop and make all of them relevant to post-bop speaks well of
the
Pennsylvania-based saxophonist, who is in fine form throughout Spiral.”
August 11, 2010
By Chuck Vecoli, www.jazzreview.com
If you have ever spent any time in the Lancaster Pennsylvania area, and you like jazz, chances are you have
stumbled
across this treasure trove of talented musicians. I have had the pleasure of hearing a few of the region's
offerings,
both in the area and on CDs. Dave Wilson is one of those musicians and the latest CD, "Spiral", by the Dave
Wilson
Quartet is among those treasures.
"Spiral" is Wilson's third and latest effort and demonstrates a growing competence in the role of leader,
composer and
arranger. Wilson brings together a band of first call sidemen including Phil Markowitz on piano, Tony Marino on
bass,
and Adam Nussbaum on drums. These talented musicians make first quality work out of the Wilson
compositions and
arrangements. Throughout this CD the sidemen are ever-present contributors to the intent of the arrangements
and
honor the emotion of the compositions. A standout performer on this CD is Markowitz on piano, a constant
compliment to the lead work of Wilson, tying the rhthym section to the lead with a sensitivity that only a master
can
provide…The work provides a perfect venue for demonstrating the talent of Dave Wilson and his sidemen. Cuts
on
this CD rank among the most entertaining jazz saxophone works I have heard. The Dave Wilson Quartet has
delivered a most memorable effort with "Spiral".
CD Reviews: http://www.audaud.com/article.php?ArticleID=7781
By Doug Simpson, Audiophile Audition
Dave Wilson Quartet – Spiral – Summit
“On Spiral, saxophonist Dave Wilson proves two things: he is a top-notch composer and he has a talent for
choosing
idiosyncratic cover tunes.
…Some jazz recordings seem produced to fit specific kinds of listeners or audiences: avantgarde, traditional,
pop-
oriented, soul jazz and others. Pennsylvania-based saxophonist Dave Wilson does not create jazz in an attempt
to
complement all tastes but nevertheless one listen to Wilson’s third album as leader, Spiral, and it becomes
evident
Wilson makes jazz that can be satisfying to several types of fans: he does not jump from one genre to another,
but
has put together an hour’s worth of jazz that is engaging, confident and rewarding.
….Wilson wrote six of the 11 tracks and despite some unusual choices in cover material, he gives the project a
cohesive unity… Wilson has a gift for picking unique covers…It is not often someone can hear a Grateful Dead
country
rocker (outlaw narrative “Friend of the Devil”) and a lilting Latin number by guitarist Toninho Horta on the same
record…However, Wilson’s self-penned cuts are the meat and potatoes of this outing and reveal an artist who
melds
technical proficiency with responsive composing.”
CD Review: http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2010/07/15/4902978.htm
St. Joseph News-Press, Mo., Street Beats column: Dave Wilson Quartet, 'Spiral' (Summit Records)
Jul 15, 2010 (St. Joseph News-Press - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) –
“"Spiral" is a minor masterpiece. It has the urgency, technical proficiency and coherent song succession that only
the
finest studio recordings possess and only the best players can produce…."Spiral" is music that deserves to be
heard.
CD Reviews: http://blogcritics.org/music/article/music-review-dave-wilson-quartet-spiral/
By Frank C. Etier
“Wait a minute! Is that Stan Getz or Paul Desmond? The first two tracks made it clear that this was real jazz,
but
when track three (“Ocean Blue”) was introduced with a smooth samba-like rhythm and the saxophone slipped
in, it
made me do a double take. Was this Dave Wilson and his quartet or did the wrong CD make it into the player?
…Spiral is Dave Wilson’s third CD and he is joined for this project by three legendary sidemen with stellar
resume’s.
Phil Markowitz on piano, Tony Marino on bass, and Adam Nussbaum on drums have worked with such notables
as
Chet Baker, Bob Mintzer, Zoots Sims, Phil Woods, Stan Getz, John Scofield, and Dave Liebman. The Dave
Wilson
Quartet is tight and turns in a defining performance both for themselves and traditional jazz.
…For those who use that crossover appeal as a benchmark for success, this CD is a must buy.
Dave Wilson is a music educator, band leader, sideman, event promoter, salesman 9 (musical instruments),
arranger,
and now recording artist. With two previous CD’s that both made waves on the charts, we hope that the third
time is
a charm for a vehicle to great fame. Such success would be great not only for Wilson, but for jazz music in
general.”
CD Reviews: http://zzaj.freehostia.com/index.htm
“The 11 cuts on this fantastic high-energy CD prove his musical genius beyond doubt, especially on tracks like
"Summer Breezes", one of the most beautiful pieces of music I've heard this year. It's full-tilt jazz from the title
track
on the opener, "Spiral", to my absolute favorite piece, "Movin' On "... Phil Markowitz' piano, bass by Tony Marino
and
drums from Adam Nussbaum all work together with Dave's probing reed work to make this a most memorable
CD…
This CD is more than just a "keeper", it's an instant classic in my collection... I can't say enough about Dave's
splendid
June 2010 release - it gets my MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED rating, as well as the "PICK" of 2010 for "best
jazz
quartet". Rotcod Zzaj Aka Dick Metclaf IMPROVIJAZZATION NATION
CD Review: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=37403
By Raul d'Gama Rose
“…The nature of successful interlocking is that the pieces fit each other with seamless perfection. In a group of
disparate musicians this is not always possible. However, with the ensemble that saxophonist Dave Wilson has
put
together the pieces seem to fit with enviable perfection. There is a swirling energy that keeps the unit cohesive;
but,
more than that, it appears as if saxophonist, pianist Phil Markowitz, bassist Tony Marino and drummer Adam
Nussbaum were cut from the same cloth. The understanding between each of the musicians is telepathic and
often,
throughout the long and rewarding set, it feels as if they share one dynamic brain.
….Something is always happening in the churning energy of the vortex that is the Dave Wilson Quartet. Usually,
Wilson provokes this with the gruff-and-tender miasma that swirls like an electromagnetic field around his
saxophone. He gently agitates the very air around him with fluidity that recalls the gentle and throaty
persuasions of
Joe Henderson on tenor. On soprano saxophone, Wilson favors a drier tone that streams with gilded edges and
sharp
undulations. His thoughts flow rapidly on both horns, turning out statements of a concrete, poetic nature….This
anchor enables him and his fellow musicians to create great circular clusters of sound, charged with burgeoning
harmony.
….There is so much on this album to challenge not simply the musicians, but also those who hear the music.
This is a
record that reaches deep into the soul—something that cannot be said about very much music these days.”
————————————————————————————-
Here are what some of the critics said about “My Time” (released in 2007):
FIRST, AN OUTSTANDING REVIEW IN THE MARCH, 2007 ISSUE OF JAZZ TIMES!
…Dave Wilson’s second CD makes a subdued entrance with a gently flowing ballad led by long, clear tones
from
Wilson’s soprano sax. But just when you thin you’ve got him figured out, the tables are turned. It’s Wilson’s
gruff,
streetwise tenor that dominates this outing, with a merry band of Philadelphia musicians keeping the vibe
straight-
up and swinging. They hit their peak in a compelling version of “Summertime” (presented here in two versions),
with
Wilson’s passionate blowing going into overdrive above the riffing rhythm section. Five original tunes offer
catchy
hooks and warm moods, keeping the disc buzzing along nicely. JAZZ TIMES, MARCH 2007
...Wilson injects punch and zip into jazz standards...his wit shines radiantly... And besides the musicians’
noticeable camaraderie and solid chops, this endeavor pronounces clarity of thought, and proclamations
of good cheer. - Glenn Astarita
...An engaging performance and clever, boppish charts, should propel this disc to
the top of the national jazz station play list. - Edward Blanco
…Tenor saxophonist Dave Wilson and his quartet are based in Philadelphia and, from the evidence of
this CD, they are well worth catching. Wilson has an intense but friendly tone on tenor and soprano, and
a style based in hard bop but open to undertaking more adventurous paths. Pianist Matt Hochmiller
takes several impressive solos and the rhythm section is both supportive and stimulating. Whether it is
an up-tempo romp or a brooding ballad, My Time has plenty of colorful moments and features the four
musicians in top form. -Scott Yanow, (AMG) Allmusic.com
…The Dave Wilson Quartet’s 2005 album My Time is very good in a recent CD release that offers mostly
original material by Wilson…It is one of the most replayable Jazz CDs we have heard in a while and fans
will be very interested too. -Nicholas Sheffo, fulvuedrive-in.com
…In the tradition of mainstream jazz, reedman extraordinaire Dave Wilson asserts himself to us his devoted
listeners like a NASA shuttle bent on conquering the universe...Proffering us their music with compelling
chordal
extensions, & lovely angular lines, etc....Bringing our sensibilities to a strong musical reaction in real time.
George W.
Carroll/The Musicians' Ombudsman
…A solid ensemble plus a few tried and true standards make this worthwhile recording. 4 Stars John Gilbert,
Ejazznews.com
…Dave Wilson…A post-Coltrane soprano and tenor saxophonist with a penchant for melody…. a keen sense of
melody, as well as the ability to turn the heat a notch up on the uptempo tracks.
-Michael P. Gladstone
…Lancaster, Pa.-based saxophonist Dave Wilson can change your mind about the hipness of Amish country… is
a
threat throughout the woodwind family. …a fluid player who gets around the horn - mostly
soprano and tenor - and blends in wherever he lands… a happening mainstream vibe
-K.S. Karl Stark, Philadelphia Inquirer
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