Antonio Hart

[B. Goren.]

In my humble opinion, Antonio Hart is one of the best among the young sax players today. I first encountered his name when I was listening to Roy Hargrove early recordings. The result of his collaboration with Hargrove is amazing. His sax is spitting fire. I like very much the tribute he recorded for Cannonbal and Woody Shaw and also his recording for Impulse- Here I stand.

On June 8, Downtown Sound 1003 (to be honest, I have never heard about this label) will release his new album. According to the jazzmataz, this is the line up:

Antonio Hart, alto & soprano saxophones, flute, synthesizer/Jimmy Heath, tenor saxophone/Michael Mossman, trumpet/Shedrick Mitchell, piano, Fender Rhode, Hammond B-3/Lonnie Plaxico, acoustic & electric bass/Billy Kilson, drums/Renato Thoms, percussion/Nasheet Waits, drums/ Maya Azucena, vocals.

Sounds very interesting, not only because of the line up, but also to see what directions Antonio Hart is going to.

Here I Stand

For Cannonball & Woody

Edited May 5, 2004 by B. Goren.

[Pete C]

In my humble opinion, Antonio Hart is one of the best among the young sax players today.

I agree that he's one of the most compelling younger altos in the straight-ahead vein. He has his own sound, but it is a wonderful synthesis of bop style and beyond with older influences like Benny Carter and a nice bit of Earl Bostic icing. I first saw him with Hargrove in the 80s, and I last saw him with the Dave Holland big band.

[sal]

Count me in as a fan. I greatly enjoy his playing.

[.:.impossible]

I was definitely impressed by his playing with Dave Holland Quintet. I'd be interested to hear more about this album. Interesting ensemble.

[relyles]

I caught Hart with Jimmy Heath about five years ago. Hart practically stole the show and it was that day that I became a fan of his playing. Before that I do not think any recording, or even the time I caught Hart live with his own group illustrated just how strong a player he was. Before hearing him with Heath, I thought he was perhaps a little too indebted to Gary Bartz. The recordings under his name that I have heard have been pretty good, but I am still waiting to hear the recording that accurately/completely represents his talents. Maybe this will be the one.

[B. Goren.]

Dear friends,

Do yourself a favor and don’t spend your $$$ on Hart's new album. I'm afraid my English is not good enough to express my disappointment, but this is elevators music from the lowest level. I can't understand how such a talented musician like Antonio Hart, who already recorded some beautiful sessions, records such an album. If one of you can provide an explanation I'll be more than happy to learn something.

All We Need