Life
David Newman remains one of the great Texas-bred tenor men. His tone is warm and resonant, his phrasing unfussy, and his harmonic finesse allows him to effortlessly bridge R&B; and jazz traditions. Newman's consistency as a bandleader on HighNote is remarkable and this is yet another session that proves the point. This time out David has selected a program that remembers his friend and colleague John Hicks. Besides the title tune, penned by Hicks, David offers eight standards that feature his alto, tenor and flute playing with the added color of Steve Nelson's vibes. This intimate setting is well suited to Newman's deep-toned balladry, as well as allowing plenty of elbow room for him to swing out when the spirit moves him.