Walter Smith, III - Casually Introducing Walter Smith, III
Artist: Walter Smith, III
Title: Casually Introducing Walter Smith, III
Label: Fresh Sound
Catalog Number: 8427328422475
Reviewed by Eddie Becton
Saxophonist Walter Smith, III’s latest release, Casually Introducing Walter Smith, III is anything but casual. In fact, the sheer energy of the well-tuned band is reminiscent of the iconic group, Weather Report in its heyday. Not to digress, Walter Smith, III’s band is not a mirror-image of Weather Report, nor does it purport to be. Instead, Smith is joined by a talented cast of young musicians, each making stellar contributions. Among others, Reuben Rogers (bass), Eric Harland (drums), Vicente Archer (bass), and up-and-coming Robert Glasper (Fender Rhodes) contribute to Smith’s debut recording as a leader. Note to self: refer readers to Glasper’s latest release Canvas).
Smith is no stranger to the jazz world, having performed with legends such as Roy Haynes, Herbie Hancock, and Wayne Shorter. The influences of these stalwarts are evident on Casually, but, perhaps more important, Smith unabashedly sutures past and present. What, then, does this union of history meets contemporary sound like? Cyclic Episode, (a Sam Rivers composition) finds the band steeped in jazz tradition, particularly the melodically airy notes of Aaron Parks (piano) and scorching solo of Ambrose Akinmusire (trumpet). This track, along with Peace (an Ornette Coleman composition) exemplifies the young saxophonist’s musical command of those who preceded him.
Conversely, Kate Song is the signature tune that musically demonstrates where Smith has been and where he is going. An energetic, swaying piece, Kate Song showcases dazzling performances by Glasper, Harland, and Aaron Parks (piano). Of particular note is Harland’s penchant for creating stop-and-go tension along with exceptional use of chatters and bombs. Glasper and Parks summon the energy and tone of legendary keyboardist/pianist Chick Corea and do yeoman’s work on this track.
Smith stretches out most on two tracks, Peace and Blues. His willingness to share the microphone is evident on other tracks, but these tracks are most evident of his true form and capacity: steeped in tradition. Casually Introducing Walter Smith, III is indeed a solid debut for Smith. By surrounding himself with a very astute, cohesive band, his notoriety will only increase over time, perhaps to the extent of the giants mentioned above.
Track Listing: Cyclic Episode/ Kate Song/ Tail of Benin/ Benny’s/ Duke Ellington’s Sound of Love/ Wooden Box/ Peace/ P.O.S./ Blues
Personnel: Walter Smith, III - tenor and soprano saxophones; Reuben Rogers - bass; Aaron Parks - piano and Fender Rhodes; Eric Harland - drums; Ambrose Akinmusire – trumpet; Lionel Loueke - guitar and vocals; Robert Glasper - Fender Rhodes; Vicente Archer - bass; Kendrick Scott - drums