Art of Rhythm
Using two dozen musicians and 26 instruments in varying combinations, Harrell offers a complex and ambitious recording that explores the possibilities of Latin/Caribbean moods. As the tempos, time signatures, and instrumentation shift, Harrell moves gracefully from atmospheric melodies floating atop serene strings to funky modal workouts and densely layered big-band explorations. Harrell's crisp work on trumpet and flugelhorn combines lyrical flair with smoldering intensity, and he's an engaging soloist in a variety of settings. The often cerebral quality of these 10 compositions and arrangements makes it challenging to absorb the album fully, but the effort of repeated listenings is worthwhile.--Marc Greilsamer