Another Level by Emmett Goods

"Embarking on a life in Jazz one must have an abundance of, among other things, dedication and perseverance. I have seen these two essential traits in Emmett Goods since our days at the Pittsburgh High School for the Creative and Performing Arts. And with this new recording, Another Level, you are now afforded the chance to HEAR these elements in both Emmett’s playing and composing.
Pittsburgh occupies a very important place in the history of Black American music as it’s a city that, along with others such as Philadelphia and Detroit, has produced such an astonishing number of world class practitioners, as well as true innovators. Emmett’s family is part of this grand legacy as his grandfather was the great drummer / multi-percussionist J.C. Moses, whose artistic affiliations include Eric Dolphy, Archie Shepp and Bud Powell to name only a few. And Emmett is joined by one more family member on this recording, his brother, bassist Richie Goods. Richie has been an important contributor to Jazz scene for many years beginning with the late, great Mulgrew Miller’s trio and now as a successful composer and bandleader, himself. Check out Goods Brothers penned by Richie which is a musical portrait of their relationship.
As for the rest of the ensemble, Emmett has chosen a team of friends and colleagues, old and new and each one makes an important contribution to the music. Nathan Edwards and Haneef Nelson distinguish themselves as both great soloists and frontline ensemble players while the rhythm section of Andrew Wilcox, Richie Goods and Mark Whitfield Jr., all talented soloists, show

how to make the music happen in any groove or style! We are also treated to organist Sheddrick Mitchell on Goods Brothers, as well as Atla DeChamplain’s beautiful vocals on Sweet Dreams, a tune of Emmett’s in which he also penned the lyrics.
Witnessing Emmett’s evolution as a trombonist and composer over the years has been one of my life’s great joys. On this record, he strikes a beautiful balance of paying tribute to his hometown and personal roots, while also not shying away from more current inspirations. The Blues is the most important element in this music and Emmett delivers them in several soulful flavors. From the energy of the opener, Bennett Street Blues, to the Sunday morning vibe of Triedstone to the closer, Blues for the Enslaved by Haneef Nelson, the core of the music is well represented. And be sure to dig the “Giant” chords (and playing) on Major Changes, as well as the beauty of October Tune and Sweet Dreams. Ballads are still one of the true tests of any Jazz musician and Emmett’s beautiful cup muted playing on his own Faith and Love (reminiscent of Master J.J. Johnson on Savoy from the late 1940s) is truly masterful. I love Emmett’s writing and playing because he has one foot in the past and one in the present, with a look toward the future!
Another Level is a celebration of Emmett Goods’ many years of dedication and perseverance in his pursuit of The Music. This pursuit is one of a player, composer and now, at the University of Rhode Island, an educator. Emmett is of the great Black American musical legacy and his commitment to seeing that legacy endure and evolve is apparent in the music contained in this recording. I certainly hope you enjoy getting know Emmett as much as I have." -Emmett Goods

The Revolution will be heard!

gettheriff.com

trrcollective.com