A member of the St. Louis Blues and Jazz Hall of Fame returned to his roots this past Sunday bringing a trio of talented musicians in tow. The Freddie Washington Quartet, led by the saxophonist extraordinaire, put on a blistering 90 minute set at the Grandel this past Sunday (1/29/2012) that showcased Washington and his fellow musicians' considerable talents. Though the turn out was less than stellar, you couldn't tell by the music that flowed from this group. This was one evening that a lot of people will be kicking themselves for missing.
Kicking off with the uptempo “All of You” Washington let loose a flurry of notes, cascading in and around the melody to superior effect. He also let his fellow players take their turns in the spotlight and they held their own masterfully, with Matt Dillinger (piano), Jeff Anderson (acoustic bass) and Matt Morrison (percussion), each taking a solo throughout the night. They produced a classic jazz sound, and functioned tightly as a backing unit, giving Washington plenty of freedom to let his muse swing.
“If I Should Lose You” followed and throughout the night Freddie swapped between tenor and soprano sax, lending each piece a unique sound and flavor. He took a slight “wind” break, but the trio behind him continued, cutting loose on a tune themselves while the master got his breath back. When he returned he was fresh and ready to let it rip again.
Not all the music was upbeat, but even when the tempo slowed and Morrison took out his brushes to add some texture, the sound was still hot. Runs through tunes like “Easy Living” and the closer, “I Hear a Rhapsody”, displayed the fact that Washington is still a player to be reckoned with and appreciated.
The show was part of the Black Rep's Sunday Concert Series, which will continue with different performers and unique presentations. Washington said he was scheduled to return later this year, so be sure to catch him the next time around. Your ears and soul will thank you for it.
