"Walter Smith III, the formidably resourceful 45-year-old Houston-born saxophonist, is a sublime example of the jazz tradition's enduring contemporaneity. His sound and incisively rugged phrasing bring many sax icons to mind, but his storytelling focus makes new music of it all."
"On My Ideal, made famous by Chet Baker, Smith's tenor builds laconically deliberate Rollins-like phrasing into double-time swirls and dives. Thelonious Monk's Light Blue unfolds like a private meditation, showcasing Smith's ability to blend classic and contemporary styles."
"A delightfully acrobatic Casual-Lee, a Konitz-dedicated duet shared with guest Branford Marsalis, is a highlight, while the poignant I Should Care and the Billy Strayhorn classic Isfahan feature bassist Ron Carter at his sublimely creative best."
The contemporary music landscape continually reshapes the definition of classic jazz, evolving from bebop to modern interpretations. Walter Smith III exemplifies this evolution with his album Twio Vol 2, which features standard song structures accompanied by bass and drums. His unique sound and phrasing draw inspiration from jazz legends while creating fresh narratives. Notable tracks include On My Ideal, Light Blue, and a duet with Branford Marsalis, showcasing the creative synergy between Smith and bassist Ron Carter, highlighting the enduring relevance of jazz traditions in today's music scene.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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