Joshua Redman's MoodSwing: A Slightly Familiar but Ultimately Unsatisfying Journey

Strategic Insights -

Joshua Redman's latest release, MoodSwing, marks his third CD and solidifies his position as a talented young tenor saxophonist. However, this album fails to build upon the promise of his previous work, instead opting for a more accessible but less challenging approach. Redman's playing style, reminiscent of Eddie Harris, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and King Curtis, is undoubtedly enjoyable, but the material is often inconsistent, veering between vibrant, hard-bop tunes and flat, pop-jazz flavors.

Key Takeaways:

  • Joshua Redman's MoodSwing is his third CD, released in 1994, and features 11 original tunes, including "Rejoice," "Mischief," "Faith," "Alone in the Morning," and "Headin' Home."
  • The album showcases Redman's identifiable stock-in-trade style, blending elements of Eddie Harris, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and King Curtis.
  • Despite his talent, Redman is an inconsistent writer, with some tunes feeling more substantial and style-filled than others.
  • The rhythm section, consisting of Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, and Brian Blade, brings energy and drive to the strongest tracks.
  • MoodSwing is not without its moments, but likely won't be enough to prove Redman's prediction of a backlash wrong.

Statistics:

  • Joshua Redman's career in music took off dramatically, forcing him to put his Yale plans on hold.
  • MoodSwing is Redman's third CD, released in the same year.
  • The album features 11 original tunes.
  • Redman's identifiable style is reminiscent of four jazz legends: Eddie Harris, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and King Curtis.
  • The rhythm section is comprised of three talented musicians: Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, and Brian Blade.

Sources:

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