Monty Alexander - D-Day

Monty Alexander celebrates his 80th birthday, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of World War II. Always oscillating between poetry and zest for life, with a pianistic style characterized by a light touch, deftly delivering artistic intentions at the right moments, this album contains a collection of iconic compositions written during the wartime period, as well as originals:

“D-Day (Just Wait),” “Why (that’s why),” “River of Peace,” “Restoration”… these compositions inspired by the conflict and its extraordinary resolution explore the emotions left by that unique moment, the heroism of the fighters, the hope for a fresh start, renewed trust in one another, and the sense of sacrifice.

This album takes on particular significance at a time when tensions are visible between Western countries and Russia, China, North Korea, and the various terrorist groups proliferating here and there, feeding off the poverty of peoples. With “D-Day” and Alexander’s specific compositions, it seems to compel us to reflect while also bringing a form of happiness.

However, it’s worth recalling Monty Alexander’s fascinating history: Arriving in the United States at the age of 17, he quickly captivated a certain Frank Sinatra, who facilitated his thunderous arrival in the realm of the greatest jazzmen of the time. He accompanied the inventors of bebop: Milt Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, Johnny Griffin, Benny Golson, and continued in the grand tradition of swing and orchestral pianists: from Nat King Cole (himself influenced by Earl Fatah Hines), to Erroll Garner, Oscar Peterson, Ahmad Jamal, and Wynton Kelly.

He forged unwavering friendships with them. He recorded for Pacific Jazz for the first time under his own name at the age of 20, with an album bursting with energy, introducing the young prodigy to the world. Critics spoke of “accessible jazz, joyful, expansive swing, without drama.”

Though the years have passed, Monty Alexander remains the same, with the added experience evident in the intelligent and meticulous arrangements of the tracks, perfectly accompanied by bassist Luke Sellick and drummer Jason Brown. In this configuration, the album sounds like a live recording, with Monty Alexander’s natural way of playing influencing his comrades.

https://www.paris-move.com/reviews/monty-alexander-d-day-eng-review/