This 2000 release titled
Thank You, Joe! Our Tribute to Joe Henderson
represents
Arkadia
's fourth in a series of "tributes" to jazz artists who have made a conspicuous difference to this constantly evolving musical art form. On this recording, seasoned veterans such as trumpeter
Randy Brecker
and pianist
Joanne Brackeen
coalesce with some of the more prominent stars to emerge out of the '80s and '90s jazz scene for a hearty tribute to the great saxophonist
Joe Henderson
.
While
rose through the ranks during the '60s he did not enjoy the fame and success that several of his peers were receiving, yet
Henderson
gradually emerged as a gifted stylist who melded a silken, atmospheric tone with distinctive and altogether enviable chops. Additionally, the saxophonist has garnered a reputation as a shrewd and rather prolific composer. Here, the music of
serves as the framework for this upbeat and smartly produced set featuring some of the artist's more recognizable compositions. With the bossa nova-tinged
"Mamacita,"
pianist
Eric Reed
, trumpeters
and
Terrell Stafford
, and tenor saxophonist
Javon Jackson
pursue poetic lyricism and impassioned soloing while
Brecker
Stafford
alternate and trade vicious fours on the bop burner,
"The Kicker."
Overall, the musicians engage
's aura with bold enthusiasm and conviction as they eternalize the saxophonist's significance via strong soloing and finely crafted arrangements that sustain interest throughout. ~ Glenn Astarita