Michael Pedicin

Jazz is an art form in which second and third acts abound, and tenor saxophonist Michael Pedicin is making the most of his late-career creative surge. A passionately soulful improviser, the New York City-based Pedicin has released a series of scintillating sessions in the past six years, and Why Stop Now. . . Ubuntu, on his GroundBlue label, reconfirms his status as a top-tier post-bopper distinguished by rare poise and maturity. Featuring his accomplished quintet, and enlisting the skills of Grammy-winning producer Joe Donofrio, he brings all his experience to bear on this eloquent recording, the latest riveting dispatch from a player who knows how to make the most out of every note.

Jazz is an art form in which second and third acts abound, and tenor saxophonist Michael Pedicin is making the most of his late-career creative surge. A passionately soulful improviser, the New York City-based Pedicin has released a series of scintillating sessions in the past six years, and Why Stop Now. . . Ubuntu, on his GroundBlue label, reconfirms his status as a top-tier post-bopper distinguished by rare poise and maturity. Featuring his accomplished quintet, and enlisting the skills of Grammy-winning producer Joe Donofrio, he brings all his experience to bear on this eloquent recording, the latest riveting dispatch from a player who knows how to make the most out of every note.

“‘Ubuntu’ means human kindness, an African philosophy that echoes my constant hope for peace and connectedness in our world.” In this latest CD release by the Professor, his 12th as a leader and 5th in the last 6 years, his passion for the way music provides a vital, breathing and ever-transforming reminder of that connection between us is celebrated and proclaimed through his personal voice, the saxophone. From the very first notes of the surging title track that opens this album, through the beautifully inspired impromptu solo that takes it home, the listener is in for a powerful ride on a gracefully navigated harmonic steeplechase.

With the highest degree of respect from his fellow artists as well as his many students and fans, the Professor continues to demonstrate his gift for communicating deep truths through his horn with his own stamp of ever-evolving mastery, surrounding himself with exceptional musicians and keeping his inspiration window wide open. With Why Stop Now. . . Ubuntu, an album marked by Pedicin’s searing lyricism and pleasingly pliable tone, he makes an incontrovertible case that he’s playing better than ever, and is truly hitting his stride as one of jazz’s more eloquent improvisers.

Gear

Tenor
Selmer mark VI (#100239)
Otto Link Tone Master #8
Otto Link ligature
La Voz Medium Soft reeds
Vandoren ZZ (2 1/2) reeds
and Francois Louis 2 1/2 reeds

Soprano
Selmer series III
Morgan #8 mouthpiece
Rico select jazz 3 soft filed reeds