SOUNDS OF APRIL AND RANDALL

DISHES AIN’T CLEAN

Soaring Records

April May Webb, vocals/composer; Randall Haywood, trumpet/flugelhorn/synthesizer/vocals/ percussion/composer; Dr. Ryan Tomski, piano/Fender Rhodes; Jacob Webb, bass; Charlie Sigler, electric guitar; Drew Cooper, nylon guitar; Dr. Nathan Webb, drums; Gabe Valle, violin/viola/cello.

The “Sounds of April and Randall” are refreshing, innovative and hypnotic. I could not believe my ears! This journalist is always looking and listening for something new and outside the ordinary.  The beautiful, soulful voice of April May Webb and her multi-talented partner, Randall Haywood bring something totally fresh to the jazz repertoire.

They begins with a song called “I’m Never Satisfied,” featuring Webb’s warm sensuous vocals and bassist Jacob Webb. All the compositions on this album feature April Webb’s composer skills.  On one song she co-writes with Randall Haywood, but the other twelve tunes are all hers, melody and lyrics. I played this first song twice, because the lyrics were so amazing, honest and true. The song is jazzy, but commercial; raw, soulful and has a groove that demands your toes tap. Haywood’s trumpet dances above the rhythm section like a pied piper.

Track #2 is a ballad called “Everybody Ain’t Gonna Like You (prelude)” where Webb once again serenades us with her lovely voice and style.  But this is only the opening prelude of the tune. Soon the band swings the tune, featuring the horn mastery of Haywood and the supportive musicians enhancing the groove.

Her songs have opinionated messages of wisdom. April May Webb is a storyteller. Songs like “He Fell in Love” is a great example of Webb’s storytelling. Dr. Nathan Webb adds his drumbeats, delivering strong supportive grooves. Both April and Randall sing. Randall lends his warm baritone voice on several arrangements. Randall also plays percussion and synthesizer, along with his trumpet skills.

April and Randall use music for self-expression, adding stories of the black experience, and life’s special moments.  These songs strive to touch hearts with the truth, like “Learning the Hard Way.”  April May Webb has her own vocal style and tone.  It’s the kind of voice that can easily cross genres. Her “Dishes Ain’t Clean” tune reminds me a little bit of a Hip Hop flavor. Then here comes Randall with his spoken-word smoothly inserted into the production. I also enjoy the way they add jazzy background voices, creating memorable ‘hooks.’  I look forward to hearing more from April and Randall.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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