Dwain

• The pairing of Garrett and Sanders is a soulful, spiritual duo of jazz greatness that bring so much energy and spirit to this live recording. This album is a fun listen and honestly I wish I had been there at the concert because it seems like it would have been a blast. The entire group gels well together and the rhythm section is really well rounded and a pleasure to listen to.

• Kenny Garrett has not failed to impress us yet on the podcast and this live recording is more of the same. The arrangements and the variation of the tunes on the album are well executed. And one thing that’s even better is Kenny’s playing; it just always feels so right to me. It feels like he’s playing from so deep down into his heart and soul and that’s something I truly revere.

• The late great Pharaoh Sanders is cut from a similar cloth and is really fun to listen to on this album. Both of these guys are so masterful at some of the extended techniques, growls, screams and just some many different ways that one could make music out of a saxophone. Pharaoh is continued to be missed but we’re glad to be able to further his legacy through his playing and that soulful spirit.

• The rhythm section is an underrated aspect of the recording because they aren’t individually featured a whole lot but they’re all killin’ and are locked in together tight. They each are very well listened and versatile in their playing.

• Sketches of MD misses the mark as the title track but it still is interesting. It just feels more like an interlude sort of piece than a main attraction to the album.

• This is really enjoyable and I will definitely be jamming to in the car from time to time. More than worth a listen!

Overall score: 8.1/10

Max

• The greatness of Kenny Garrett is seemingly undeniable. His soloistic prowess is matched nicely by this group; in particular, the added pairing of the spiritual and ever-present Pharoah Sanders, as well as a spot-on rhythm section with Nat Reeves, Benito Gonzalez and Jamire Williams. A variety of sonic expressions are present with the use of synthesizers, different keyboard tones, and the innumerable sound characteristics that define Kenny Garrett’s and Pharoah’s abilities to manipulate tone, sound, and texture. It may be argued that there are one too many saxophone squeals for the average listener, yet they are executed well and definitely used in appropriate, musical ways.

• There is also an emphasis on groove, as witnessed on “Intro to Africa,” “Wayne’s Thang,” and “Happy People.” The pocket, tempo, and overall feel on “Intro to Africa” is a nice surprise and one of the most musically satisfying selections. All 3 rhythm section members treat each tune exceptionally well, as a range of styles and approaches are included here, from the Coltrane-esque opener “The Ring,” to the funky “Wayne’s Thang.” “Sketches of MD” is certainly an ode to Miles Davis and effectively explores varying sonic realities, yet, seems more like an accompaniment to movie scenes rather than a possible stellar title track to a live album. Another slight disappointment was found in the lack of improvisatory exploration on “Happy People.” That is a fun track that feels great, yet, it left me desiring more, even though it’s the 2nd longest track on the album. Also, a drum or bass feature would have been a nice addition somewhere on the record.

• I do, however, appreciate the elements of fun and musical exploration that are present on most of the album. Also, Kenny Garrett’s personality is well on display when talking and interacting with the crowd on the mic. Altogether, this is an interesting recording from Kenny Garrett that delivers groove and excellent, expressive playing. While it certainly won’t be in the running for one of the best jazz albums ever, it’s definitely worth your attention. Strap in; this one’s a fun ride.

Overall score: 7.9/10