By: Dr. Matt Warnock
The Gardener is an expressive and experimental take on the Latin-jazz vernacular by the talented, Chicago based, pianist Darwin Noguera. With his tongue in cheek Evolution Quartet, Noguera is not only referencing the famed father of modern evolutionary theory with whom he shares a name, he is also referring to the evolutionary nature that his music possesses. The music on this album represents a new branch on the tree of jazz. Noguera’s music grows out of a strong understanding of what has come before him while creating a new branch of the musical evolutionary chain. This new approach to the genre produces compositions and improvisations that are as enjoyable to listen to as they are refreshing in nature.
There is a strong dichotomy of old and new thread throughout The Gardener. There are tunes that are firmly based in the Latin-jazz tradition, such as “Aguas Quietas,” penned and featuring harmonic virtuoso Howard Levi. The tune features the seldom heard Son-Nica rhythm as well as a memorable improvisation by Levy and strong rhythmic support by Noguera and percussionist Juan Daniel Pastor.
The other side of the musical dichotomy can be heard on the albums opening track “Señor Del Pozo.” The tune’s intro features rhythmic and melodic dissonances before settling down into the main groove of the tune. The tune then alternates between sections of traditional Latin and modern jazz grooves, with some very hip and modern horn voicings thrown in for good measure. The constant push and pull between new and old prevents the album from becoming redundant. There is always a new harmonic, melodic or rhythmic twist waiting around each corner.
As well as being a talented composer, arranger and bandleader, Noguera is an accomplished performer, a talent that he showcases on many occasions throughout the album. One of the best examples comes during his solo performance of the tune “Piano Prelude.” Here, Noguera brings a sense of melody, phrasing and emotion to his the piece that one would only expect from a performer many years his senior. Noguera can also lay it down when the moment is right. His solo on the albums opening track is a hard-driving, excursion into the modern jazz vernacular that showcases the diverse nature of this up and coming composer-performer.
The Gardener is a very strong outing for Noguera and his entire ensemble. It is a bold and refreshing look at the Latin-jazz genre from an artist that will no doubt continue on his musical evolution for many years to come.
Links
Darwin Noguera Homepage
Gardener on Amazon
