ZEN ZADRAVEC

NEW PARADIGM

Marmite Records

Zen Zadravec, piano/keyboards/composer; Tom Bartelmay, guitar; Mike Pope, acoustic & electric bass; Nick Calandro, acoustic bass; David Alvarez & Travis Aukerman, drums; Todd Bashore, alto saxophone; Dominic Bierenga, tenor & alto saxophones; Derrick Gardner & John Douglas, trumpets; Dylan Bell, vocals.

Zen Zadravec and his group of merry men bust into my listening room with forward motion. Their music is rooted in post-bop and jazz tradition. These arrangements are reminiscent of the energy and intention of players like Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane and early Miles.  The tune is called “First Impressions” composed by Zen Zadravec and it makes a rich impression on me.  There is nothing I love more that a tight, serious, Straight-ahead band that plays with dynamic authority and excellence, like this one.

Zadravec is a pianist who can play fusion jazz with the same energy and determination that he has when interpreting traditional Straight-ahead.  He currently leads two original projects.  One is the Zen Zadravec Quintet.  The other is a fusion oriented ensemble called, Human Revolution, that proudly displays his genius in both styles.

The tunes on “New Paradigm” sound like jazz standards.  They are well written and full of joy and excitement. Every song radiates dynamic ensemble interaction, allowing each musician to step forward and present their improvised expression, while holding the integrity of the compositions Zadravec has written.

“Seeking Spirit” is as high energy as the opening tune. The horns open Zadravec’s composition with force and determination, embellishing the melody and excitement at the top of the tune. Zen steps into the spotlight, playing his piano with the same fortitude and driving energy that the horns had. It then features a stunning solo by acoustic bassist Nick Calandro.  Up steps Dominic Bierenga, on saxophone, to bring more fire to the arrangement.

Zadravec’s song “Rebirth” is arranged in a more contemporary way. it gives his horn players an opportunity to step forward, soloing in their own magnificent way. The title tune reinforces the contemporary jazz side of Zen Zadravec.  He offers an integrated approach to composing, with arrangements that paint colorful life into his original songs.

“Love Letter” is a ballad, sung on alto saxophone in a very sweet way, followed by Zadravec’s tribute to the memory of Irene Zadravec with a waltz titled, “In Memoriam.”

In addition to his concerts, recordings and compositional work, Zen Zadravec is deeply committed to jazz education and mentorship. This album shines a beautiful spotlight on the way he has blended contemporary jazz with old-school traditions and post-bop. In his own unique way, this composer and pianist invites the listener into his arrangements, as if he is asking us to have a seat in his living room.  Each of his compositions are just that personal, innovative and warm, introducing a “New Paradigm.”

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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