Blueprints of Jazz Vol. 1, Mike Clark
Blueprints of Jazz Vol. 2, Billy Harper
Blueprints of Jazz Vol. 3, Donald Bailey
The three volume series entitled Blueprints of Jazz by Talking House Records was released back in 2006. Jazz veterans Mike Clark, Billy Harper and Donald Bailey lead their separate ensembles in their own unique journey in jazz.
Clark’s ensemble most notably features Christian McBride on bass, and Donald Harrison on alto. Jed Levy’s beefy tenor sound is a real treat to hear in this setting. Readers not familiar with Clark’s varied background playing with many jazz legends would do themselves a favor to check out this remarkable drummer.
Billy Harper’s music on Volume 2 is not only rooted in traditional jazz but lined with a message for the listener. Harper’s preaching is woven into the tunes here and there – take it or leave it. The music is performed with great conviction and passion.
Volume 3 of Blueprints in Jazz showcases the talents of another impressive drum veteran – Donald Bailey. Longtime Philadelphian saxophonist Odean Pope is featured throughout both on tenor sax and with his own compositions.
You can find out more about these jazz artists at http://www.threcords.com
