Trumpeter
Malachi Thompson merges hard bop, free, African rhythms, and gospel stylings on this release.
Lift Every Voice is reminiscent of what drummer
Max Roach did with his regular band in collaboration with
the J.C. White Gospel Singers in the 1970s (his album was also called
Lift Every Voice), but
Thompson has added some intriguing personnel and rhythmic elements. He uses four trumpets and trombonists, plus a bassist, drummer, two percussionists, and eight singers on the title track.
Thompson's ringing solos, crisp lines, declarative themes, and bursts are also backed by his free bop band.
Thompson deserves high praise not just for trying something different, but succeeding.