Dwain

• “Who Are You When No One is Watching?” begs exactly that question and the outstanding Braxton Cook takes us on his personal journey to answer just that question. Braxton really comes into his own with this genre-fusing album that not only brings phenomenal music, but also a message.

• Braxton’s message is evident through powerful R&B tracks such as “Statistics”, “90’s”, “Gold”, and “The Same”. These tracks, although all heavily steeped in R&B, all bring something different to the table and bring out different elements of both Braxton’s vocals and his playing. His ability to fuse R&B and Jazz is so seamless and he does it in a way that feels so personal to him. The way that he is able to take us on his self discovering journey while weaving through the powerful R&B tunes and the more modern jazz selections is pure mastery. The balance between the two is near perfection; the R&B tunes almost always have his sax playing to comp with his singing or taking a solo and the jazz tunes still have those modern fusion rhythms and elements.

• The more straight ahead jazz tunes such as “MB (for Ma’Khia Bryant)”, “Indie”, “Meters”, and “Serenity” showcase Braxton’s capability as a jazz composer and player in such a fresh and unique way. His playing is unique and always in the pocket and he is a joy to listen to. I love the intensity that the record brings from the get-go with “MB” with a rhythm section that is locked in and ready to go. Guitarist Andrew Renfroe gives us a taste of how much of a heavy contributor he is going to be on the album starting out with the opener. His tone fits the landscape of the album so well and we get many great guitar solos from him. His doubling of the melody on “Meters” is spot on and his solo is even more so that, the phrasing, the rhythm and the lines while all being driven forward by the rhythm section. The band really shows their chops on this selection with the great melody, solos, and an awesome trading section between Braxton and Andrew.

• The thing that makes this album stand above other recent releases in the jazz landscape is how well it is curated and the story that it tells. This album truly is a lens into Braxton’s experiences at this point in his life. It takes us through a journey of self exploration and takes us through a few ups and downs along the way. The album also explores Braxton’s influences musically in such a succinct and interesting way. The melting of jazz and R&B is never forced and is a delight to the listener's ear. This album is much more than a collection of songs, it’s a musical journey that Braxton is vulnerable enough to let us on with him and that deserves immense praise. This one is a must listen and not just as background music, start from the top and clear your calendar for an hour.

Overall score: 8.9/10

Max

• Braxton Cook is one of those cats that will continue to surprise you. He’s got a lot of influences and a wide range of abilities. This record succeeds in showcasing the best of all sides of Braxton. We get a number of tunes that come from his soulful R&B side, complete with him on vocals in addition to saxophone. It’s also appreciated that he has a killer lineup of band members and special guests, including Masego on “90’s” and trumpeter Marquis Hill on “The Same.” Mr. Cook’s straight-ahead foundation comes out on “Meters,” “Serene,” and “Black Mona Lisa,” which serves as the ballad on the album. Another neat aspect present in this album is the inclusion of 4 interludes, labeled as ‘journal entries.’ These include moments of dialogue between Braxton and his mom and dad, giving us a glimpse into Braxton Cook, the human being. He seems to appreciate his family immensely, while also letting us know what values have been instilled in him with the titles of these interludes, using names such as “The Work,” “Faith,” and “Trust,” while the last one is called “Parenthood.” The dialogue of these interludes took place during the onset of the covid pandemic. It’s a window into Braxton’s artistry and value meter. On that note, we also have as the album opener a song called “MB (For Ma’Khia Bryant),” alluding to the tragic death of 16-year old Ma’Khia Bryant at the hands of Columbus police. Yet another statement is made here with the song's melodic composition and soloing. Braxton has got some things to say and he utilizes many techniques and practices to impactfully express himself.

• Mr. Cook’s R&B inclinations are well expressed on “Statistics,” “90’s,” “Gold,” and “Let Go.” Great chord progressions, grooves, and catchy, yet meaningful lyrics are included in all of them. Drummers Jonathan Pinson and Curtis Nowosad add so much to these grooves, and help build intensity underneath solos. Their contributions are well noted on almost all tunes, including the selections that lean more acoustic and straight-ahead. In fact, these rhythm section players accompany the leader tremendously. Guitarist Andrew Renfroe often doubles the album’s saxophone melodies, working to beef up the sound of the lead line. Renfroe also shines with his solos on “Indie,” “Serene,” and “Meters.” The tune “Meters” also contains a well constructed melody, impeccable solo phrasing, and nice interplay between sax and guitar towards the end of the track. Tunes like “Let Go” are on the shorter side while still delivering powerful grooves and a distinct message. Another highlight is “90’s.” The almost ‘trap-beat’ or ‘dilla’ beat feel is pulled off nicely, accompanied by great lyrics and texturally-pleasing saxophone. Be sure to catch Joshua Crumbly’s bass solo on “Serene” too, as it emphatically hits home that serenity feeling. “August’s Interlude” sounds playful, lighter and slightly wispy, effectively portraying his young son, August.

• Braxton Cook’s Who Are You When No One is Watching? Is a powerful recording. Every track says something, which is a testament to the mind and drive of Mr. Cook. The collaborative elements on the album demonstrate the effectiveness of Cook’s leadership and musicianship. The numerous odes to his family is extremely refreshing. In all honesty, it took me a minute to really grasp this album, but once I did, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The grooves, lyrics, and varying musical elements that make up the record’s sound are intriguing. Cook’s saxophone playing is on point, while the moments where he adds in extra sax parts to certain tunes really caught my ear. Most everyone should check this one out; there’s no way you’ll be disappointed.

Overall score: 8.6/10