What's New on WDCB... with Paul Abella

Patrick Cornelius – Book of Secrets (Posi-Tone)

New York native and saxophonist Patrick Cornelius recently released his latest album on Posi-Tone Records, Book of Secrets. Joined by some familiar faces like vibraphonist Behn Gillece, pianist Art Hirahara, bassist Peter Slavov and drummer Vinnie Sperrazza, Book of Secrets was composed as a 12 part suite. “Archetype” is an exciting way to start things off, as it builds and builds throughout an excellent solo from Cornelius. The title track is as mysterious as the name might suggest. “Inner Sanctum” is another highlight of the album, with a funky, crime soundtrack feel to it. All in all, Book of Secrets is a fun listen with plenty of twists and turns to keep a listener engaged.

Lorca Hart Trio – Inspiration & Gratitude (Night is Alive)

Lorca Hart, a drummer located on the West Coast, has put together a solid effort with a nice band on his latest album, Inspiration & Gratitude. Joined by pianist Josh Nelson, bassist Edwin Livingston, with special guests Dayna Stephens (saxophone) and Nicolas Bearde (vocals on “A Time for Love” and “Let Me in Your Life”), Hart covers a lot of ground over the course of nine tracks. From the soundtrack music of Ennio Morricone (“Ness and His Family”) to the music of McCoy Tyner (“Blues on the Corner”) and Chick Corea (“Like This”), it really says something that Inspiration & Gratitude sounds like a cohesive effort. Dayna Stephens and Josh Nelson both shine brightly throughout this album, and its their solos that you’ll want to look out for when we’re playing Inspiration & Gratitude on WDCB.

Allan Harris – Live at the Blue Llama (Live at Blue Llama)

Vocalist Allan Harris, recorded Live at the Blue Llama, is a revelatory listen. Over his studio albums, he’s paid tribute to Nat King Cole and Eddie Jefferson, and sung the music of Jimi Hendrix and Steely Dan. On Live at the Blue Llama, to my ears, the influence of Al Jarreau becomes apparent. Harris’ “New Day” evokes Jarreau in tone and timbre, and “Spain” shows the influence of Jarreau’s choice of material, too. There’s also some clever arranging at work here, too. Not only does he slow the classic “Jeannine” down to a crawl, but he also reworks it over the groove of Herbie Hancock’s "Butterfly." It’s quietly brilliant, honestly. The band has plenty of space to stretch, too, with a handful of genuinely enjoyable solos, especially from saxophonist Irwin Hall.