Gordon Lee - How Can It Be? (2023)

Gordon Lee, a Portland jazz piano legend, has returned with a brand new album titled "How Can It Be." Joining him on this incredible musical journey are Renato Caranto on tenor sax, Dennis Caiazza on bass, and Gary Hobbs on drums. Together, they create a sonic experience that is not to be missed.

The opening track, "How Can It Be," immediately captures the listener's attention with Lee's intricate piano work and Caranto's soulful tenor saxophone. The chemistry between the musicians is palpable, and their improvisations are both bold and sensitive.

On "Hypatia," Lee's sensitive touch on the keys perfectly complements Caranto's tender saxophone melodies, evoking a sense of restlessness. Caiazza's bass work and Hobbs' drumming provide the perfect foundation for the emotional depth of the piece.

Lee's composition "A Robin Weeps" features a funky, upbeat groove that showcases the quartet's undeniable energy and virtuosity. The interplay between the musicians is electric, with each member taking turns at the forefront and pushing the others to new heights.

The album's stand-out track, "Too Soon," is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that allows Lee to showcase his skill as a composer and pianist. The passing of Portland Jazz Force of Nature, Carlton Jackson, was the inspiration for the piece. Caranto's and Lee's solos are delicate and poignant, while Caizza's bass and Hobbs' drumming provide a gentle and supportive rhythm.

"How Can It Be" is a testament to Gordon Lee's continued evolution as a musician and bandleader. The quartet's synergy is undeniable, and each member's individual talents shine through in every note. Fans of Portland jazz, or jazz in general, will not be disappointed by this outstanding release.

Gordon's Liner Notes:

These songs of mine reflect the world now. How can it be? “Hypatia” was a brilliant philosopher, mathematician and astronomer murdered by a mob of religious fanatics in 415 in Alexandria, Egypt. “Angry Mother Nature” and “A Robin Weeps” are laments for our changing, beleaguered natural planet. “Show Pain” is derived from a Chopin nocturne and “Shaky Assets” demands that you dance when times are uncertain. “Too Soon” is an elegy for Carlton Jackson, the original drummer in this quartet. “Bozo Sulks on the Golf Course” is composed for our last president. “‘Deed I Did It” is a sprightly contrafact on “‘Deed I Do”.

In spring of 2020 I started playing concerts on my front porch. I lived on a quiet street where people would bring folding chairs to set up and listen and sometimes dance to my original music as well as jazz standards. All night clubs were closed then because of covid so people were eager to hear free live music (donations accepted). This band played every couple of weeks in the summer with Renato Caranto, Dennis Caiazza and Carlton Jackson, the great drummer, musicologist and radio DJ who passed away suddenly in 2021. It was devastating to me but I had to keep the music going. Gary joined the band then. This album is the direct result of those summertime concerts. It is dedicated to Carlton’s memory.