In the world of jazz composition, it is never too late to take a risk.
“It?s about what the students are listening to these days,” Dave Burrell said.
Performing works from his new album, “Momentum,” composer and pianist Burrell cites one piece, titled “Downfall,” as having a very repetitive chant, with drums playing futuristic rock that he notes is both “funky and high-powered.”
“I?ve fused avant-garde piano with a backbeat,” he said. “Much like what?s going on in hip-hop.”
Burrell?s reputation as a provocative performer of the late ?60s free-jazz scene still attracts young fans, both in the U.S. and in Europe. His success is based in great part on the fact that he understands the power of collaboration.
“I remember being told during a recording session that I was letting the side men have too much solo space, and that it was taking away from my being a leader,” Burrell said. “But that?s what jazz is ? the interplay, each musician being featured, having his moment in the spotlight.”
Burrell noted that allowing musicians to “have their say” only enhances his solo work on the piano.
“It?s difficult to hold back a thoroughbred racehorse, and I have two playing with me,” he said.
One of those thoroughbreds is Peabody teacher and director of the Peabody Jazz Orchestra Michael Formanek,on bass.
“Dave has a natural and intuitive touch,” he said, “with his own approach to the music.”
If a jazz style can be all-encompassing and comprehensive, then Burrell?s captures the trophy.
“The first time I heard Dave Burrell, I was amazed,” said An die Musik booking agent Bernard Lyons. “It seemed I was listening to the history of jazz piano in the context of one concert.”
IF YOU GO
Dave Burrell 3 Jazz Trio
» Venue: An die Musik LIVE!, 409 N. Charles St., Baltimore
» Time: 8 p.m. Saturday
» Tickets: $20; $18 students and seniors
» More info: 410-385-2638
