LARRY CORBAN — Corban Nation (review)

LARRY CORBAN — Corban Nation album cover Album · 2016 · Hard Bop Buy this album from MMA partners
4.5/5 ·
Carmel
Guitarist Larry Corban is based in New York City and a part of the ever-growing vibrant jazz scene. You can find him regularly recording and or performing with the likes of, James Weidman, Harvie S, Steve Williams, Steve Slagle, Buddy Williams, Sylvia Cuenca, Essiet Okon Essiet, Ron Affif, Omer Avital, Avishia Cohen, Ralph Peterson Jr., Roy Hargrove, Vic Juris, Oz Noy, Nir Felder, Ben Butler, Matt Beck, Jeffrey Lee Campbell, Tim Quick and Wayne Krantz. His education background includes a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from Ithaca College, and he has studied privately with Pat Martino, Wayne Krantz, Joanne Brackeen, Jack Wilkins, Vic Jaris, David Fuze Fiuczynski, Mick Goodrick, Steve Brown, and Rick Beato.

The sum of this experience is immediately evident in his latest offering with the Aperturistic Trio, entitled Corban Nation, that kicks off with “In-Vision,” an up-tempo pentatonic burner, filled with strong rhythm changes throughout the song form. This track features guest artist Steve Slagle who takes up the soprano sax on this cut, weaving fine solo lines of precision. Pianist James Weidman is eloquent, swinging, and his in the pocket rhythm coupled with solid ideas builds a gateway to Corban’s flurry of single notes that are guaranteed to sear your soul. Harvie S keeps the group tightly cemented while creating an undercurrent of rhythm that swings with empowered passion, and a perfect partner for drummer Steve Williams slammin’ set rhythms.

“The Shape of Time,” is a groove based tune, that draws inspiration from the classic tune “Sunny,” while traversing different keys for the improvisational sections. Weidman utilizes fender Rhodes, to give it a classic groove sound. The group chomps and digs with an in the pocket feel for a solid listen. “Slow Fizz” begins with an ala Pat Metheny Beyond the Missouri Sky vibe, open and spacious while building into a loping swing with complex harmonics and a lilting ¾ time feel, at times reminiscent of a Scofield vibe from the 70s.

The offering is closed out befittingly with a standard “I Should Care,” which is treated with respect and eloquence. The quartet has a unique way of expanding upon the sound of a standard while still respecting its origins.

Overall, Corban Nation is a highly listenable offering with plenty of meat and potatoes, laced with introspective cuts to savor and enjoy. Each release builds upon the ever growing, ever maturing discography of Corban. A recommended listen!
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