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Jazz Chicago  

Empirical - Out 'n' In

Considered one of the best young jazz combos in England, Empirical experienced some turnover of personnel, but have returned with a strong sophomore release that is highly influenced by the music of Eric Dolphy. The group is led by bassist Tom Farmer and alto saxophonist Nathaniel Facey - who between them wrote most of the non-Dolphy-written material. They are joined by new drummer Shelby Forbes and vibraphonist Lewis Wright - who adds the sound Bobby Hutcherson brought to Dolphy's work - especially the seminal Out to Lunch - from which two compositions ("Hat and Beard," and "Gazzelloni") are covered. The quartet is augmented with special guest Julian Siegel on bass clarinet and tenor saxophone and they achieve a very close approximation to Dolphy's sound, especially since all of the original music was composed with some Dolphy-aspect in mind. Dolphy's theory of Harmonic Symmetry, brief improvised interludes, and an understanding of Dolphy's life and music combine to make this an enjoyable and admirable tribute to the late artist who would have turned 82 this year. "Out but In" is a response to "Mrs. Parker of KC," while "So He Left" is based on Dolphy's time with Charles Mingus and "A Bitter End for a Tender Giant" laments the tragic early death of the trailblazing reedman and composer.

Brad Walseth