Alan Barnes, the award-winning reedman, teams up with pianist David Newton for their reflective and mature duo album, 'Tis Autumn. Released on September 6, 2024, via Woodville Records, this jazz album is a testament to the lifelong musical journey of these two virtuosos, who first crossed paths as teenage roommates at Leeds College of Music. With a combined age of 131 years, Barnes and Newton bring a wealth of experience and musicality to this intimate collection of standards, showcasing their artful economy and profound understanding of jazz.
'Tis Autumn features nine tracks, including the poignant title track, a tender rendition of "A House is Not a Home / Alfie," and the upbeat "Lucky to Be Me." The album spans a total duration of 52 minutes, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Barnes and Newton's chemistry shines through in their duets, with Newton's piano sketches serving as the perfect backdrop for Barnes' expressive and nuanced playing on a variety of reeds, including alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, as well as clarinet and bass clarinet.
This album is not for those seeking high-octane, in-your-face jazz performances. Instead, 'Tis Autumn invites listeners to appreciate the subtleties and refinements of a mature and thoughtful approach to jazz. The album's reflective quality is evident in every note, making it a standout addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Alan Barnes and David Newton or a newcomer to their work, 'Tis Autumn is sure to captivate and delight.
