Matt Wilson’s latest album includes a cover of “Fuller Love (In Case You Missed It)”, the standard Bobby Watson composed as a member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Bolstered by saxophonist Tia Fuller, the jubilant interpretation is an excellent replication of Watson’s signature sound.
Watson enters a new phase of his storied career on his latest album Continuum. Older, wiser and more reflective, the Kansas City icon plays with the nuance of an elder statesman on the October release. He’s joined by longtime conspirators bassist Curtis Lundy and drummer Victor Jones as well as trumpeter Wallace Roney, Jr., trombonist Kysen Ellis and pianist Jordan Williams.
Watson’s solos on tracks including “Soft Shoe” and “Pappy’s Prophecy” showcase his altered tone and less impetuous attack. His amended sound is particularly evident on a sensitive reading of Mal Waldron’s “Soul Eyes.”
While Watson’s delivery has evolved, the melodicism that’s made him beloved around the world hasn’t changed a bit. The tunes on Continuum- including a new version of his old favorite “Karita”- are as catchy as ever. Those not comfortable with Watson’s evolution can revisit his vigorous classics like 1986’s Love Remains or his artistic progeny including Tia Fuller.