NEW YORK SKA-JAZZ ENSEMBLE – Minor Moods – LP

This work represents the definitive consolidation of the New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble (NYSJE) as one of the world’s leading names in the fusion of Jamaican rhythms and jazz harmonies. On a technical and compositional level, the album stands out for its impeccable instrumental craftsmanship and a contagious, vitalistic optimism that wraps around each and every track.

The repertoire of this record balances itself in a highly poised manner between the creative brilliance of its own members and a deep respect for jazz and popular music classics. The original compositions are shared among saxophonist Freddie “Rocksteady” Reiter, guitarist Andy Stack, and pianist Peter Truffa. Alongside these creations, the band brings great masterpieces like Miles Davis’s “Nardis” and Thelonious Monk’s “Bemsha Swing” into their own territory of improvisation and swing. Although the majority of the album is instrumental, the New York combo successfully introduces two vocal gems: the track “Your Love For Me” and a highly praised reggae reinterpretation of Paul Simon’s classic “Cecilia”.

Most of this full-length album was recorded at the legendary Studio 900 in New York. As a historical curiosity linked to the Brixton Records catalog, the Italian trombonist Gigi “Mr. T-Bone” De Gaspari actively participated in these sessions just before conceiving his own American project in Brooklyn. The finishing touch to the production is provided by the album’s final track, “Buttah”, which was recorded live in the city of Geneva (Switzerland) during their successful European tour in July 2002.

Critics agree that Minor Moods is a timeless little gem. While the most rigid jazz purists might raise an eyebrow at such boldness, for lovers of traditional ska, rocksteady, and black music in general, it is an impeccably executed work. The melody is immediate and catchy, allowing the horn section complete freedom to stretch out with jazz patterns over an unbeatable riddim, resulting in a fresh album that is ideal to enjoy from start to finish.