SEAN JONES
Eternal Journey (Mack Avenue Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Eternal Journey is the first solo release by trumpet player Sean Jones. Only 25, Jones has already recorded and performed with several big names in the jazz world, including Jimmy Heath, Joe Lavano, Jon Faddis, Frank Foster, the Illinois Jacquet Big Band, Gerald Wilson Orchestra, and the Chico O'Farrill Orchestra. For his initial effort, Jones enlists Tia Fuller on alto and soprano saxophones, plus flute; either Orrin Evans or Mulgrew Miller on piano; Charles Fambrough on bass; and Ralph Peterson on drums.

The music on Eternal Journey is in the bop/post bop tradition. Jones contributes five original compositions, Fuller offers two of her own songs, and the musicians cover four standards. From the opening notes, the musicians generate excitement and enthusiasm. The soloists are inventive and focussed, the band well integrated. Jones' trumpet playing has a big, warm tone to it, reminding me somewhat of Clifford Brown or Lee Morgan. With good command of his chosen instrument, Jones' solos are eloquent in their formulation and articulation. His playing on ballads is evocative, managing to avoid sounding trite and banal when playing tunes such as "God Bless The child" and "The Very Thought Of You" that have been recorded all too frequently.

Jones' own songs are good, and will improve as he matures and develops in his world view. Besides his professional music career, Jones teaches music at Duquesne University while working on his own doctorate. This commitment to study and improve his musical knowledge and skills will sharpen his compositional talents. All in all, Eternal Journey is a worthy first recording for a star in the making. Here is a musician to track in the future.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich