Amid a stupendous crop of new albums from emerging contemporary jazz musicians, one more than holding its own is that from saxophonist Curtis Haywood. This silky smooth self titled collection of three covers and eight original compositions is as good a debut as will be heard all year. It places Haywood in the sophisticated company of players such as Paul Taylor and Marion Meadows who invariably inject a seductive edge into much of what they do.
After first learning his music at New York's prestigious High School for the Performing Arts, Haywood went on to attend the renowned Berklee College in Boston and has since shared the stage with the likes of Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Sounds of Blackness and The Noel Pointer Band. For a time in the 90’s he also fronted his own band Joshua but now, as a solo artist, he is at last making a mark. The album opens with Haywood’s mellow cover of ‘Anytime’. Originally from Brian McKnight’s critically acclaimed 1997 CD of the same name its vibe fits Haywood to perfection and he finds more of the same, first with a thoughtful interpretation of Stevie Wonder’s ‘Creepin’ and again with the hip ‘Just Friends’.
Tracks such as ‘Springtime’ and ‘Rain Song’ (the first single to go to radio) shimmer with the smooth mid tempo veneer that characterizes much of Haywood’s own writing and although ‘Monet’ has that same luscious groove, he takes his time to overlay it with an ever increasing measure of attitude. When he later reprises the number with a drum and bass makeover it’s that same attitude which is evident from the get-go.
The feisty back beat of ‘Moving West’ makes for compelling listening while equally rhythmic is the enthralling ‘Crockpot’. Topped off by lilting piano, ‘Missing U’ is held down with a big bass driven beat and Haywood ensures that the excellent ‘Journey’ turns out to be another mid tempo cut a little beyond the ordinary. A shuffling beat coupled with interesting production all adds to the pleasure but that said the best smooth jazz track on the CD is probably ‘Heal Our Land’. Despite the children’s chorus this one is entirely radio ready.
In the ultra crowded landscape of contemporary jazz saxophone Curtis Haywood has delivered a project that dazzles with rhythm and melody. It should do well.
