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| Troy Roberts - Greenlights - Video Premier - Releasing May 10th Embracing his love for a vast variety of stylistic genres, two-time GRAMMY nominated saxophonist, Troy Roberts is quickly becoming one of the most widely recorded touring artists of his time. As a go-to first call saxophonist, his name adorns several essential recordings ranging from the legendary Joey DeFrancesco to the iconic Van Morrison to the quintessential Jeff "Tain" Watts, to the tireless Orrin Evans Captain Black Big Band, to the critically acclaimed Kurt Elling, to the breathtaking Veronica Swift, including numerous other jazz veterans, and newcomers considered tastemakers of their generation. Roberts, an Australian-born, now long-time New York City resident, is also a prolific leader with sixteen releases to his name. Currently celebrating his latest, Green Lights (featuring John Patitucci, Paul Bollenback and Jimmy Macbride), Roberts maintains a busy recording and performance schedule with some of the greatest artists of today. Troy Roberts' latest album, Green Lights, marks his 16th endeavor as a bandleader and showcases his remarkable ability to blend genres, creating sounds that resonate with both jazz and other contemporary genres. Roberts, a New York City based Australian immigrant, has built a reputation as a two-time GRAMMY-nominated saxophonist whose versatility and skill have placed him among the most sought-after musicians of his generation. The album features the unique collaboration of John Patitucci on bass, Paul Bollenback on guitar, and Jimmy Macbride on drums. This quartet, though familiar with one another individually, records together for the first time on this album. This dynamic creates a fresh and spontaneous sound, offering listeners a novel experience. Roberts' choice to include all original compositions, some newly written for this group and others being reimagined older pieces, speaks to his continual evolution as a composer and artist. This approach ensures that Green Lights stands out not only as a collection of performances but also as a comprehensive artistic statement. The album title, Green Lights, and its underlying concept reflect Roberts' journey as an independent artist. The notion of "green lights" symbolizes his autonomy in the creative process, an idea inspired by the Wayne Shorter documentary, Zero Gravity. Roberts interprets the color green as a multifaceted symbol representing various themes like tranquility, nature, positivity, but also decay, rot, greed, or envy. This interpretation adds a rich layer of meaning to the album, inviting listeners to explore these themes through the lens of his music. Musically, Green Lights shifts towards a more acoustic and straight-ahead jazz style, contrasting with the electric vibe of his previous project, 'Nu-Jive'. This change in style highlights Roberts' adaptability and his skill in exploring different musical landscapes while maintaining a cohesive sound. Roberts is a musician known for his versatility, creativity, and technical fluidity. His ability to blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary sounds is noted as a significant factor in his success. His previous works, such as Nu-Jive: Nations United and Nu-Jive 5, have been lauded for their originality and dynamic energy. Green Lights is Roberts bringing us a vibrant artistic vision grounded in his ability to navigate the complexities of modern jazz. It's a record that encapsulates his journey as an independent artist, his relationships with fellow musicians, and his constant quest for musical exploration and expression. Players & Instrument: TROY ROBERTS: tenor saxophone PAUL BOLLENBACK: guitar JOHN PATITUCCI: acoustic bass JIMMY MACBRIDE: drums Tracks, Times: Track Names and Times, Composer 1. GREEN LIGHTS 8:07 (Troy Roberts) 2. THE QUESTION 7:14 (Troy Roberts) 3. BY YOUR SIDE 5:56 (Troy Roberts) 4. SOLAR PANELS 6:52 (Troy Roberts) 5. HARRY BROWN 10:07 (Troy Roberts) 6. JIVE DUMPLING 9:22 (Troy Roberts) 7. UP TO NO GOOD 9:05 (Troy Roberts) 8. THE SCOTSMAN'S BALLAD 6:32 (Troy Roberts) 9. STRETCH ARMSTRONG 8:13 (Troy Roberts) 10. SOUNDCHECKIN' 0:30 (Troy Roberts) All compositions by Troy Roberts. TOTAL RUNNING TIME OF CD: 72 mins Troy Roberts continues to be a master of styles and configurations with this eminently accessible, sonically and rhythmically engaging session, emitting steam and sumptuous harmonic colors along the way. -Glide Magazine The bandmates' long-time chemistry undoubtedly accounts for the stability and respect this ensemble creates together. A jazz session filled with 3D proportions of interacting and layering to create something unique and meaningful that encompasses the jazz of today and beyond. -Steven Miller, Sound In Review write your comments about the article :: © 2024 Jazz News :: home page |