previous post
S
Tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson, who has just released “Deja Vu.” A true keeper of the flame, tenor saxophonist and former Jazz Messenger Mr. Jackson continues to champion the tradition with his spirited interpretations of some well-known standards on Deja Vu. Recorded during one incredibly productive stretch in 2017 (the nine tracks here are part of 19 overall recorded in just two days), it stands as a sequel of sorts to 2018’s acclaimed For You. Fronting the same band of pianist Jeremy Manasia, drummer McClenty Hunter and venerable bassist David Williams, Jackson delivers in the same self-assured manner that has marked his playing with icons like Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, Cedar Walton, Charlie Haden and Elvin Jones. While putting a highly personal take on such timeless and essential vehicles as “Autumn in New York,” “Limehouse Blues” and “My Shining Hour,” Jackson and his accomplished crew also deliver fresh takes on tunes by Wayne Shorter, Cedar Walton, Thelonious Monk and the late Jimmy Heath, who passed away just before the official release of Deja Vu. The lone Jackson original on the program, “T.J.”, a dedication to his father, which is played here with pianist George Cables.
