Jazz maestro Phil Ranelin with Henry Franklin and Big Black showcase young talent in Perseverance

Ranelin is a loved trombonist and was Freddie Hubbard’s sidekick. His instrument of choice wasn’t just a passion; it was an art and education, having studied with highly respected jazz and classical educators of the time. It doesn’t stop there, he extended his expertise to work as a session musician for Stevie Wonder and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

Having worked with jazz giants Freddie Hubbard and Dizzee Gillespie, Perseverance brings together Phil Ranelin, Henry Franklin and a cast of talented young artist for the first time.

If you love jazz, you’ll love this album – it follows the same blueprint as his contemporaries. The first track In Search of The One has a distinct Middle Eastern sound to it, which immediately sets it apart. This theme subtly litters the album, especially with Moorish which has an instantly recognisable Arabic hook.

The album’s title track is bongo brilliance and samples parts of the first track, but makes it smoother. This is the essence of the album – it’s smooth.

As an album, it’s not going to set the world on fire, but it’s something I would expect to see at the Barbican or Ronnie Scott's.

Six out of ten.

http://www.wienerworld.com/new-releases/phil-ranelin-perseverance.html