David Sanchez - Coral (2004) [SACD]

This is not jazz, this is not classical, this is not Afro-Cuban. This is music; the true test of a music lover.
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David Sanchez, a Puerto Rican by birth 1st came to prominence in Dizzy Gellespie’s United Nations Orchestra. Dizzy brought many aspiring musicians to the attention of the public during his long & distinguished career; David Sanchez was 1 of the last. He has a most beautiful tone on the saxophone & a technique 2nd to none. I would rate him 1 of the best tenor players in the world at this time. I find it refreshing that he is able to be modern & different, without the use of the ugly sounds, which for me mar the work of so many contemporary musicians.
The arrangements for the Prague Symphony by Carlos Frenzetti are also remarkable. Most jazz player with Symphony backing discs have failed due to a total lack of empathy between the players. This is not present here, what we have is superb melodies, excellently played by all concerned. The recording was in fact made in Prague, at Smechy Studios; the mixing however took place at Sony Music Studio, New York City. Wherever the work was done, the overall result is near perfection, so near, that I could not point to anything needing improvement. Perhaps the sleeve note could have spent more time on the background to the music & a less on David thanking his butcher, baker & candlestick maker!
The 1st 2 tracks are based on compositions of Jobim, which gives a guarantee of quality. Tracks 6 & 9 are Sanchez compositions & track 6 is from Franzetti. Track 6 has some double tracking with Sanchez stating his own theme before continuing with more delicious improvisations.
This is music to relax & enjoy; David Sanchez takes the listener on a musical journey of great quality & inventiveness. It is 1 of the very best new releases in a long time & should be in everyone’s collection.