Dave Bass - 'NYC Sessions' Review

Dave Bass’ path to music stardom hasn’t been a straightforward one by any means. However, there’s no use wondering, “What if?” when you have a highly entertaining recording like NYC Sessions resulting from such an unconventional journey.

When this pianist and composer started out in the industry, his star shone brightly. Unfortunately, a serious wrist injury derailed Bass’ career, forcing him to work on a backup plan. Over the next two decades, he completed his bachelor’s degree, earned a law degree and ultimately worked his way up to Deputy Attorney General for the state of California.

Bass’ love of music took a backseat for many years, until he started jamming with friends around the Sacramento area. After he felt he was back on his game, he headed into the studio in 2010 to record Gone, his first album as a leader instead of an accompanist. Stunned by how well-received it was, Bass lost no time getting back in the studio for NYC Sessions, a recording that explores an East Coast flair as the title suggests.

Of the 11 tracks on NYC Sessions, Bass composed nine of the songs and arranged the three standards that the CD features. The result is an eclectic array of styles delivered with a passion and polish that will captivate any listener. Highlights include “Lost Mambo,” “La Comparasa/ Mi Montuno” and “Dark Eyes.”

“Lost Mambo” is a fun and spirited number with an infectious melody that won’t allow you to sit still while listening. “La Comparasa/ Mi Montuno” is a breathtaking piece that changes pace often. It takes Cuban composer/pianist Ernesto Lecuona’s “La Comparsa” and infuses it with a section from Bass’ own composition, “Mi Montuno.” The spellbinding piano runs and tango-like melody easily transports listeners to a South American café where a cat-and-mouse game is underway. “Dark Eyes” is a cover of a traditional Russian song. It seems very dramatic at first, but it will ultimately win you over with the Latin jazz strains reminiscent of the beloved standard, “Sway.”

The instrumentals on NYC Sessions are energetic and crisply executed. The musicians work well together to achieve a harmonious balance – there’s no unnecessary exhibitionism here. Although each individual’s technique is dazzling, these professionals know when to enter the spotlight and when to quietly withdraw so as not to overwhelm each other. Personally, this makes for a much more enjoyable listening experience.

Of course, with that being said, I certainly can’t forget to mention the sensational vocalists, Karrin Allyson and Paulette McWilliams. Each singer has her own signature style – Allyson’s incredible control and strong diction conveys confidence while McWilliams’ huskier timbre makes her a powerhouse. Both properly deliver the lyrics in terms of pacing and emotion, making their respective tracks, “Endless Waltz” and “Lost Valentine” and “Since I Found You” and “Just A Fool,” sound flawless.

All in all, NYC Sessions is a gripping recording featuring a diverse catalog of tunes by a talented group of people clearly passionate about their art.

For more information on NYC Sessions, please visit Dave Bass’ website or follow him on Facebook and Twitter.