Soundtrack to Human Motion

Personnel: Jason Moran (piano); Greg Osby (soprano & alto saxophones); Stefon Harris (vibraphone); Lonnie Plaxico (bass); Eric Harland (drums).
Jazz pianist/composer Jason Moran's debut, Soundtrack to Human Motion, approaches his music with an abstract, impressionistic outlook. Inspired by artists as diverse as painter Jean-Michel Basquiat and composer Maurice Ravel on tracks like "JAMO Meets SAMO" and "Le Tombeau de Couperin/States of Art" and "Gangsterism on Canvas," Moran applies a kinetic, graceful touch. Vibes, alto and soprano saxophones, bass and drums complete Moran's sonic palette on this impressive first album. ~ Heather Phares