July 22, 2010

Dream Life, the fifth release from this very competent contemporary jazz band, Fingerprints, seems to cover more turf than just contemporary jazz as it shows off a fine blend of genres and styles ranging from old school soul to a Brazilian touch.

Opening with a nod to the great Herbie Hancock, “Tell Me A Bedtime Story” takes on the mellowness of a summer breeze with the help of the lilting flute offered by Shelley Carrol while maintaining a telling drive.  That’s followed by the funky drum-heavy title track, a groove surely to stay with you, as its hook and sweet melody are matched only by its spirit.

As acknowledged by the group, perhaps the most notable track of the CD is the one that leader and bassist Frederick Nichelson was honored to co-write as then title song for the documentary I Am A Man, the story of Elmore Nickelberry and his fight for dignity and justice in the late 1960s during the Memphis, TN, sanitation workers strike of that time—a strike that received the support of the late great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  The song here, by the same title, is as powerful as the spirit and conviction of Mr. Nickelberry, as Tim Jones takes us back to that period with some good ol’ soul-stirring vocals.  Quite effective and moving, indeed.

The album goes on to impress with other fine tracks, such as the Brazilian-influenced “Max Master,” a tune that breaks out the palms, the exotic drinks, soft beach shores, and whispering tides, once more courtesy of that calling, seductive flute and an alluring rhythm, matched by a cool guitar riff.

Bassist Nichelson makes it clear that the group is most enthusiastic to share its gift of music with the world and says, “We express that enthusiasm every time we perform or record and hope that people feel the same joy we do.”  Indeed, Dream Life will make it very difficult not to share that joy.  –  Ronald Jackson