John Crawford's "Times and Tides," released in 2016, is a captivating jazz album that showcases the pianist's exceptional compositional versatility and the superb chemistry of his core quintet. The album, initially released on Elsden Music and later on Monpas Records, is a testament to Crawford's ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and engaging whole.
"Times and Tides" features nine tracks, each offering a unique blend of rhythms and melodies. The album opens with "Blurred," a track that sets the tone for the rest of the album with its complex, a-rhythmic figures. "Once I Loved" and "Solea for Brixton" showcase Crawford's ability to infuse Latin and flamenco influences into his compositions, with the latter track providing a standout performance from guitarist Guille Hill. "Gabriel's Message" is another highlight, featuring a beautiful melody and a captivating groove that blends Afropop and Latin influences.
The album also features stunning vocal performances from Linley Weir and Leonora Claps, adding a new dimension to Crawford's music. The core quintet, which includes Duncan Lamont on tenor saxophone and Shanti Paul Jayasinha on trumpet and flute, delivers a powerful and dynamic performance throughout the album.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Times and Tides" is a journey through the diverse musical landscapes that Crawford has explored. The album is a testament to his growth as a composer and bandleader, and it is sure to captivate jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
