Dave Young "Tale of the Fingers": Justin Time just 143-2. . - Northern Exposure - sound recording review

Bassist Dave Young's credentials are many, as a sideman with some of the world's greatest jazz artists, and as a leader. His series (three CDs), of duo sessions for the Justin Time label includes tracks, with the likes of Oscar Peterson, Tommy Flanagan, John Hicks, Mulgrew Miller, Ellis Marsalis, Cyrus Chestnut, Oliver Jones, Kenny Barrojn, Barry Harris and Renee Rosnes, attest to the special chemistry that is so important in these settings. In this trio performance (with Cedar Walton on piano and Barry Elmes on drums), Young incorporates sounds and textures that are exciting, and sustains the interest throughout the ten tracks. His bowing technique, at times, reminds me of another great bassist, Paul Chambers; always swinging, and with perfect time. (The title track is, incidentally, by Chambers). Young has a distinctive sound, whether arco or pizzicato, and this comes to the fore in the soulful and passionate performances in his conversations with pianist Walton. He executes his solos with flair and control , and with the beautiful sense of rhythm from drummer Elmes, the power and magic of Walton's always impressive improvisation, makes this recording an exhilarating experience. The compositions are a mix of rich diversity, from "Just in Time", "Sweet and Lovely", "Lost in the Stars", all standards, to those written by Walton: "Bremond's Blues", "A Bell for Bags" (a tribute to the late Milt Jackson), Wynton Kelly's "Keep it Moving", and those by Young (his writing is as interesting as his playing): "Down the Middle", "The Night is Long" and "Ode to the Southwest". Liner notes are too brief, but well written, by a fellow, bassist Rufus Reid.

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