Abram Wilson - Jazz Warrior (2004)

Trumpeter Abram Wilson's CD is presented as a potpourri of influences and cultural centers such as New Orleans, New York and London, but it unfortunately collapses into mush as a result of too many ingredients. In spite of the obvious talent of the participating musicians, hip-hop overshadows jazz throughout most of this release. After a promising start with "Pedal Harlin," a funky post-bop vehicle and the spirited, playful tribute "Monk," things start to come apart in a hurry. The vocal interpretation of Stevie Wonder's "Golden Lady" and Wilson's equally bland "You Wouldn't Know" belong on a pop album, while the annoying rapping and lack of a meaningful melody in "Jazz Warrior" make it a candidate for the scrap heap. Unlike a musician the caliber of vibraphonist Stefon Harris (who incorporates the influence of hip-hop into the sound of his group Blackout without sacrificing jazz in the process), jazz becomes only a side dish on this disappointing entrée served up by Abram Wilson. -- Ken Dryden