As the
title suggests, Joshua Reedman explores new rhythmic territory on Freedom
in the Groove. Abandoning the traditional hard bop that has dominated
his past recordings, Redman attempts to work himself into hip - hop and
urban dance rhythms, which results in an occasionally intriguing but often
frustrating album. Occasionally, the fusions work, with Redman contributing
sympathetic, graceful licks to the gently insistent rhythms. Too often,
the record sounds forced and stilted, which is unfortunate, since jazz
/ hip - hop fusions need a musician of Redman's caliber to make it credible
in the jazz world.
- - Leo Stanley
|
|