Outlaw Vibe

by Ernest Barteldes

are $ 20. For more information call , 212-427-0253 or visit http://www.lenoxlounge.com 

The 63-year-old Philadelphia-raised Virginian has been one of the most notable drummers and percussionists of his generation and also one of the greatest exponents of the 60s heyday of the venerable (and then independent) Blue Note label.

Not only have his highly imaginative compositions been covered by the likes of Freddie Hubbard and Bobby Hutcherson (with whom he’s also performed) but he has also gone on to write the scores for several Spike Lee films, including She’s Gotta Have It (1986) and Mo’ Better Blues (1990). He has continued to tour and record over the years, blending various rhythms and sonic textures into his music, which is not exclusively limited to jazz. Instead, he brings in inspiration from sounds he grew up around, including R&B, Gospel and rock, mixing them in with his conservatory-trained technique to very positive results.

This very eclectic approach can specially be noticed on his new release, The Outlaw (Savant), in which he presents original material and new arrangements to a handful of covers (including Duke Ellington’s "In A Sentimental Mood"), stepping away from the drum kit to concentrate - for the first time in his career - on the vibraphone and other instruments. On the CD, he seamlessly goes through modern jazz, samba, soft, synth-laden melodies and even Afro-Cuban sounds, reverentially revisiting the past but also keeping a keen eye on what lies ahead.