Transition

Dave Weckl's third release for the Stretch Records label reflects a new direction; seven newly penned compositions, new techniques, and new personnel. Aptly titled as Transition, the drummer benefits tremendously from his longstanding musical relationships with saxophonist Brandon Fields, bassist Tom Kennedy, and, the newest member of the band, keyboardist Steve Weingart. In addition to the four-piece lineup, Weckl jams with new percussive techniques; the incorporation of bongos, a tombek, wind chimes, and metal percussion into his drum setup. Just as the chart maker Synergy showcased the leader's ability to groove as well as to cut loose, Transition provides generous doses of high-energy drumming that characterized Weckl's days in Chick Corea's Elektric Band and the Akoustic Band, with the two approaches revealing a marked convergence. "Mild Hysteria" has a bluesy melody that changes gears harmonically for the solo sections and features the artist drumming in a fast double-time while the rest of the band is almost in half-time. Brandon Fields' "Group Therapy" features the saxophonist's swinging groove and great blowing. "Passion" is an emotional number that features the Steve Weingart great keyboards in tandem with Weckl's delicate, percussive ambience. Fields' beautiful sax is resonant and alluring on his solo and deepens the impact on the listener. "Crossing Paths" is another great song with a catchy melody that is marked by the consistent bass playing of Tom Kennedy. Together, the Dave Weckl Band is an ensemble that has blurred the line between soloist and accompanist and creates layers of sound that flow between several distinct moods.