Nick Brignola - This Is It! (2023)

For his debut album as a leader, reed player Nick Brignola (1936-2002) crafted a very tasty post-bop program that not only showcased his multi-instrumental mastery, but also highlighted his limitless and tumultuous creativity.

Recorded towards the end of 1968, the album titled "This Is It!" was released on Nick Brignola’s newly established Priam label, in Albany, N.Y. As stated in the album’s liner notes, what started out as just a musical get-together became a recording date. The result of that occasion was this album, which brought together four musicians who had never played together as a group before.

Their only preparation was a mutual feeling about music, and the spontaneous energy and chemistry they generated during the recording session can be heard in every track. The album’s approach leans more towards the visceral than the lyrical, owing to the leader’s strong and invigorating playing, as well as his inventive use of different instruments. Bassist Moore and drummer Dick Berk provide Brignola with driving rhythmic support, while Markewich’s comping is effective.

On a few selections, Brignola takes advantage of multi-tracking opportunities, such as in “The Mace,” where he plays a baritone duet, and in “Blues for Ose,” where he switches between saxello and bass. He also demonstrates his doubling skills in the remainder of the album, switching from one horn to another to add a splash of color and interest to the pieces.

—Jordi Pujol