John Hebert - Rambling Confessions (2015)

The work of vocalist Carmen McRae was the original inspiration behind John Hébert s most recent quartet. The bassist and composer has long appreciated McRae s incredible voice and style. But as with so many things, as time passed, the project evolved from a simple repertory ensemble into a showcase for Hébert s compositions and the creative interplay among four outstanding musicians. The results of the ensemble s work can be heard on the new recording, Rambling Confessions. Hébert has been an important member of New York s jazz community for nearly two decades. His expert bass playing has been a hinge for ensembles from some of the music s most well-known voices, including Andrew Hill, Fred Hersch, Paul Bley and Lee Konitz. His catholic approach to the instrument and jazz music has made it possible for him to expertly bridge the divide between the worlds of classic jazz and the avant-garde. Interestingly, the group that began as a tribute to one of the greatest jazz vocalists in the past 50 years went on to make a recording that isn t necessarily a vocal jazz album. The utilization of Shyu s vocal instrument and the group s remarkable interplay make Rambling Confessions an excellent addition to John Hébert s oeuvre and an intriguing example of his leading, composing and arranging skills.