Sean Jones: The Search Within

Trumpeter Sean Jones is only 30 but here he is with his fifth album as a leader and great work as a sideman.

 

On The Search Within, Jones finds new colors and textures to extend his musical palette. The album opens with a brief interlude, the yearning title tune (it closes with it as well); the trumpeter's tone is so rich and full that he gives this wisp of a melody weight to color everything that follows. And what comes right after is the explosive "Transition," suggesting the changes in a young musician's life. Jones splashes out choruses of burning intensity while never losing direction. Also incendiary are saxists Brian Hogans (alto) and Walter Smith (tenor) and the smashing rhythms of pianist Orrin Evans, bassist Luques Curtis and drummer Obed Calvaire.

The titles here talk of the serious work done by Jones as he makes his way through his life and career. "Life Cycles" is a melody that makes its circular way with the beautiful addition of Gregoire Maret's harmonica. And the expressive singing and lyrics of Carolyn Perteete give moving voice to the sad but beautiful "Letter of Resignation".