Reviews

Scott Yanow on Catapult

Born and based in Massachusetts, David Mitton has been playing the saxophone since he was eight. He studied music at several colleges including Berklee, developing an original sound and a harmonically advanced style. Catapult is his recording debut as a leader.

The music, comprised of ten of his originals, is both adventurous and satisfying. Mitton is joined by tenor-saxophonist Bill Jones on the first six of the pieces, pianist Andy McWain (who switches to electric piano for the final three numbers), bassist Michael Lavoie and drummer Michael Ashley. The musicians have close communication and really know the material, which is fortunate because none of the chord changes or melodies are obvious. The solos never take it easy or rely on clichés or simple licks. Although not identical (and the often-tricky rhythms always fall into straight ahead jazz), the complexity of the tunes and the rhythms sometimes recall the M-Base music of Steve Coleman and Greg Osby.

The interplay between the two saxophonists during the first half of the program, although more modern, is on the level of Lee Konitz and Warne Marsh. The ensemble-oriented “Cognition” is particularly exciting. The musicians never let up, constantly push themselves, and create some very original music together. The final four numbers, which have Mitton as the only horn, are a little more laidback but just as searching and passionate.

The intense yet relaxed playing heard throughout this disc is memorable, making this a very impressive debut for David Mitton.

Scott Yanow, author of 11 books on jazz including The Great Jazz Guitarists, Bebop, Afro-Cuban Jazz, Jazz On Film and Jazz On Record 1917-76