Odean Pope Quartet
Two Dreams
CIMP

Former Max Roach saxophonist, Odean Pope, presents his slightly free adventures on Two Dreams. In keeping the roles of the soloists and the rhythm section well defined, the music on Two Dreams tends to highlight both Pope and alto saxophonist Carl Grubbs. Left to lesser talent, this might result in an unbalanced approach. Luckily, this never occurs on Two Dreams, as the reeds ride high and low, dropping their vivid imagery wherever they go. Of course such distinction in the foreground only occurs when the background is well rooted. Bassist Tyrone Brown and drummer Craig McIver are excellent throughout the album, with tight beats, insightful rhythms, and potent grooves. The opening tune, "Turn Me Loose," sounds like an updated version of "A Night In Tunisia," with Brown's bass lines introducing the horns' slight dissonance, feeding and maintaining their quick, angular motions. After this initial burst, the album settles a bit with tunes reminiscent of Johnny Griffin's Blue Note output. Songs like "Quick," "Two Dreams," "Seed of the Land," "Fifth House" and the final romp, "Line for Four," share a knitted harmony of rhythm and melody that feels comfortable, familiar, warm and accessible. The album's more introspective pieces, "The Foliage," and "AnDar," also come through in memorable tones.

A worthy album for fans endeared to the Blue Note feel and sound though awaiting a transport to modern times. In bringing the compelling bop of the past with modern, slightly disjointed sensibilities, Two Dreams, indeed, is a creation of the best in jazz, the present and the past.


- Germein Linares


Track Listing: Turn Me Loose/ The Foliage/ Quick/ Two Dreams/ Seed of the Land/ Fifth House/ AnDar/ Lines for Four


Personnel: Odean Pope- tenor sax; Carl Grubbs- alto sax; Tyrone Brown- bass; Craig McIver- drums