"That’s my test for a song I'm thinking of performing or one I'm writing." Jeff says "I want a melody that reaches out and pulls you in. I feel the same way about improvising. I want it to be melodic and inviting."
The album includes a relaxed turn on Duke's "The Feeling of Jazz" a swinging "Vaya Con Dios" and a startlingly fresh reworking of Coltrane's "Wise One". His interpretation of "Autumn Nocturne" fully captures its melancholy nature and the interplay of his tenor with guitarist Ed Cherry on "Little Girl Blue" is exquisite.
Jeff has high praise for his compatriots on this date. "The sidemen are veterans of the New York City jazz scene. They each have recordings out as leaders. Their support and solo contributions are consistently of the highest musical level."
Ed Cherry is best known for his long tenure with jazz icon Dizzy Gillespie. Organist Radam Schwartz resume' includes stints with Arthur Prysock and David "Fathead"Newman. Vince Ector on drums has supplied his rhythmic pulse for such jazz stalwarts as Charles Earland and Randy Weston.
Jeff's earlier sideman work encompassed everything from big band swing to blues to rock and roll. "I've always been a working musician. I've learned an incredible amount from being on the road with some ‘old- school’ bandleaders." His experience includes two years touring with the Tommy Dorsey "ghost band" under the direction of master musician Buddy Morrow, followed by a stint with Matt "Guitar" Murphy of Blues Brothers fame and two years touring with the legendary Chubby Checker.
“This is my fifth album as a leader and I think it’s my best yet” Jeff reflects. “I continue to work on my playing and writing. I've been at it for awhile now but I'm more intrigued than ever with the possibilities."
One thing is certain, with his strong voice in front and this top-shelf backing "Soul To Go!" is jazz at it's best!