SEAN JONES
Gemini (Mack Avenue Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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With Gemini, his second recording for Mack Avenue Records, Sean Jones is rapidly realizing his potential as one of the better trumpet players in jazz. Using hard bop as his foundation, Jones builds an intoxicating CD incorporating touches of gospel, funk, latin, and blues. The resulting mix is emotional and eloquent. Jones has a wonderful sense of melody, and can groove with the best, as can each musician on this session. Jones is joined by Tia Fuller on alto saxophone and flute; Ron Blake or Walter Smith III on tenor sax; Mulgrew Miller or Orrin Evans on piano; Andre Hayward on trombone; Kenny Davis on bass; and either E.J. Strickland or Corey Rawls on drums. These musicians all have talent to spare and sound admirably integrated as a unit.

The first half of Gemini focuses on acoustic jazz, the second utilizes electric keyboards and bass. The whole CD is tied together by three interludes titled Gemini (Phase I), (Phase II), or (Phase III), similar to the way Miles Davis used his Theme piece on "The Complete Concert, 1964 - My Funny Valentine + Four & More." The comparison to Miles doesn't extend just to the CD's structure. Check out Jones' playing on muted trumpet throughout. His use of space between notes of his solos and his lyricism are reminiscent of Davis. Finally, Sean Jones can also compose. Favorite numbers by Jones are "Blues For Matt B," a rousing blues piece that is flawlessly articulated, and "B.J.'s Tune," a evocative, soaring song written to commemorate the birth of his nephew.

Gemini avoids easy choices and showboating. Instead, it's a sincere, heartfelt effort by a rising star in the jazz scene. Sean Jones' potential appears unlimited. Hopefully, as he continues to mature and improve, Jones will turn that potential into reality. As it is, his sophomore effort is a highly satisfying session.

© 2005 - Ron Saranich