Donald Edwards

After six prior engagements for Criss Cross as a sideman, drummer Donald Edwards’ first leader offering for the label is a program of ten well-wrought originals that embrace the complex harmonies and rhythms of 21st century jazz while hewing to strong melodic values and abiding soulfulness.

Helping set the mood is an A-list ensemble – pianist (and Criss Cross veteran) Orrin Evans and bassist Eric Revis, with whom Edwards performed on the 2013 Orrin Evans Trio record ...It was Beauty (Criss 1359) as well as tenor saxophonist Walter Smith III (III – Criss 1328) and world-class guitarist David Gilmore.

PERSONNEL:

DONALD EDWARDS drums
WALTER SMITH III tenor sax
DAVID GILMORE guitar
ORRIN EVANS piano
ERIC REVIS bass

Recorded at Systems Two Recording Studios, Brooklyn, N.Y., October 28, 2013

TRACKS:

01. AMERICAN DRUM CALL TO MAMA
02. HISTORY OF THE FUTURE
03. NIECEE
04. THE DREAM
05. THE ESSENTIAL PASSION
06. DOCK’S HOUSE
07. NIGHTMARE OF FUN
08. WHEN
09. CULMINATION FOR NOW
10. NOT REALLY GUMBO
11. TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCE