I admit it – I’m often skeptical regarding a concept CD from a new artist. I think to myself - oh they need a gimmick to get to me to listen.
8 by pianist and composer David Arnay falls in to the concept category by an unknown artist, but I’m glad I took the time to listen to it and I think you will be glad to hear the concept on 89.1 Jazz. The disc is eight pieces ranging from a solo piano cover of Caravan to an original octet piece called Dream Groove. While I did not recognize David Arnay’s name, I was familiar with two outstanding musicians on this disc: percussionist Munyungo Jackson and drummer Peter Erskine. We do not hear them as much as we should and they both bring depth, fire and punch to their performances.
8 is a reflection of a fertile musical mind and great imagination from David Arnay. It’s a worthy new music recommendation from WEMU.