Bassist Max Moran has always been one of the brightest lights in the new generation of jazz players now coming into their own in New Orleans. A member of the award-winning Bridge Trio since his high school years, he’s also an in-demand sideman across the city and the country. The eponymous debut album from his band Neospectric, is in stores today and the group will celebrated the release with an early performance tonight at the Maple Leaf Bar. Showtime is 8 PM.
For jazz lovers expecting more of the straight ahead post-bop Moran is known for with the Bridge Trio and some of his work as a sideman, you will be in for an unexpected, but delightful surprise with this album. It’s a homage of sorts to the legendary funk and R&B sounds of the 1970s; think bands like Earth, Wind and Fire, the Meters, and the work of George Clinton filtered through the perspective of the 29-year old musician. Some of the songs even hint at the fusion music of that era.
The combination makes for compelling listening. As another generation of jazz artists begin exploring music outside that genre, they bring a collection of experiences and musical influences unavailable to musicians who grew up in the 1980s and ’90s and looked back fondly on the seminal music of the 1970s. These players are part of a continuum of discovery that helps invigorate every generation of inquisitive players across the length and breadth of modern music.
I had an opportunity to check out the band back in August before I even knew this record was in the can. I was totally blown away with the musicality of the group and the unerring focus of the musicians on stage.
That show, which also took place at the Maple Leaf, featured A.J. Hall on drums, Cliff Hines on guitar, Shea Pierre on organ and keyboards, and Khris Royal on saxophone all of whom appear on the album. The record also features a who’s who of young talent in New Orleans as well as two of Moran’s musical mentors—alto saxophonist Donald Harrison and trumpeter Nicholas Payton.
For the gig tonight, expect a much bigger band. Jay Winfield will be on keyboards instead on Shea Pierre. John Maestas will join Hines on guitar. Trumpeter Steve Lands and tenor saxophonist Stephen Gladney will join Royal in a monster horn section.
Tickets are available at the door.
