Alyn Cosker: Lyn’s Une | SACD, Linn

Description

‘Lyn’s Une’ is an album of searching electrifying jazz with compositional flair and mighty muscle from drummer extraordinaire Alyn Cosker. ‘Lyn’s Une’ (a typing error for ‘Alyn’s Tune’) showcases Alyn as an impeccable drummer equally comfortable at writing new tunes for a variety of instruments and vocals. His growing reputation has attracted top-class musicians who show the strength of the current Scottish jazz scene.

As a drummer, Alyn Cosker grooves for a wide array of musicians in many styles, but it is in jazz that he is really making a name for himself. His drumming is influenced by many of the jazz greats including Buddy Rich, Elvin Jones, Roy Haynes, Steve Gadd and Jeff Porcaro. He has drummed for Joe Locke, Lee Konitz, Courtney Pine, Carol Kidd and Clare Teal.

As a writer he is influenced by many composers and in particular by saxophonist Tommy Smith who plays some wonderful solos on the album, including a driving solo on Bheki (a tribute to the late Bheki Mseleku). There are some soulful solos from fellow saxophonist Paul Towndrow on Lyn’s Une and there are several energising and inventive solos from former rock guitarist David Dunsmuir throughout the album including on That’s the Ticket – an upbeat funky track.

The rest of the rhythm section includes bassist Ross Hamilton and Jason Rebello on piano and the entire band can be heard playing together on Twitter and Bisted. Straight Through Boogaloo is a fantastic demonstration track to showcase Alyn Cosker’s talents. His softer side can be heard on the final track When Autumn Comes co-written and performed by SNJO vocalist Maureen McMullan.

Brand new SACD, not sealed.