Hahn, Alex: Emerging

Based out of Los Angeles, California, Alex Hahn is an up and coming young gun in the world of jazz. He released his debut album Traveling in 2014 under the moniker The Alex Hahn Crossing. His follow up disc titled Emerging has just been released where he proves being young is no detriment to making sophisticated and melodic contemporary jazz music.

Hahn's melodic sensibilities shine right from the start with "Rebirth", a melodic gem where the strings, piano and sax are absolutely ear catching. The music slows offering a more introspective feel and it is here the bass comes to the forefront with a fabulous solo amidst accents of piano. "Long Ago" begins slow and softly with a melodic build only to slow down once again. The vibraphone solo is a welcome addition to the piece. "Getting Closer" is built around ultra-catchy sax rhythms whereas the title track is a relaxing tranquil piece of melodic jazz. The easy flowing "Looking Ahead" is highlighted with sax and trombone playfully entangling with one another. The piano work is also highly notable. The nine plus minute "Song For Hope" begins with slightly melancholic strings and sax before the band starts to build up steam with some excellent ensemble play.

For melodic jazz it doesn't get much better than Hahn's Emerging. Besides great melodies you also get excellent musicianship. Really, the best of both worlds.

Band members are:

Alex Hahn (alto and soprano saxophone)
Ramsey Castaneda (tenor saxophone)
Jon Hatamiya (trombone)
Simon Moullier (vibraphone, synth)
Paul Cornish (piano)
Logan Kane (acoustic bass)
Colin McDaniel (drums)
Connor Kent (percussion)
The Andrew Toll Strings

Track Listing:
1. Rebirth (6:58)
2. Long Ago (5:17)
3. Getting Closer (7:14)
4. Emerging (6:21)
5. Looking Ahead (7:33)
6. Song For Hope (9:35)
7. Psychedelic Sun (6:27)

Added: September 12th 2017
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 2940
Language: english

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