“Beckham's approach is reminiscent of older band leaders like Paul Motian and Chico Hamilton but [his] work has a sound all its own— which is what jazz is really about.”
—Rhapsody.com
The follow-up to his 2006 Apria release Center Songs features the vibraphonists' distict compositional voice along with his fiery ensemble.
Tom Beckham - vibraphone, Chris Cheek - saxes, Henry Hey - piano, Matt Clohesy - bass, Ferenc Nemeth - drums
"Center Songs is well worth it. With terrific charts, a great sound and an impressive performance by Tom Beckham and crew, this is one entertaining album that succeeds in delivering a vibrant musical statement."—ejazznews.com
True to its title, Tom Beckham’s The Center Songs is about the songs and he has a decided knack for a tune that tells a melodic story. —allaboutjazz.com
The tune "Center Song" might be a good metaphor for the album as a whole: modern groove, artful harmony and melody, and a coherent presentation of how previous inspirations can bring about new voices. Albums like Bobby Hutcherson’s Total Eclipse, Stick Up! or Patterns might be "traditional" predecessors that use the vibe/sax quintet instrumentation, but while Beckham might come from a tradition, Center Songs seeks to carve out a space for his own strong voice -- influence meets invention. This album is rife with hooks that won't lose their wonder. —Kellen Yamanaka, KKJZ
His exclamatory way with the mallets brings lots of fireworks to the instrument’s naturally mellow personality. —The Village Voice
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Tom Beckham Center Songs (Sunnyside/Apria 4502) |