"Glover's set was something else entirely, damn near the stuff of which legends are made." - All About Jazz
For the fortunate folks who've seen tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover on stage - in the Blue Note supergroup ARTEMIS, in Christian McBride's new quintet, alongside Wynton Marsalis in the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, or gigging with her trio - the term "powerhouse" readily comes to mind. Hers is a big-tone sound that seamlessly swings from the punch of Coltrane and Rollins to the breathy softness of Getz. Fluent in tradition, ever curious to explore, she integrates great range and energy for a style all her own.
On her bold new album "Plays," Nicole leads a piano-less trio with Tyrone Allen on bass and Kayvon Gordon on drums - plus vibraphone master Steve Nelson guesting on half the tracks. Out of the gate, we get Ornette Coleman's "Open or Close," which quickly illustrates her spirit and the tightness of the band. Kenny Dorham's "The Fox" allows for some buoyant sax & vibes interplay, while Tyrone's original tune "The A-Side" and the classic "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face" play it soft with brilliant technique. Throughout, there's plenty of swing, but some of the best is saved for last on "Blues for Mel," a tribute to drummer Mel Brown, one of Nicole's mentors. Major chops from a rising star.
Listen to Nicole Glover's "The Fox"
Listen to Nicole Glover's "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face"
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