A tricked out red sedan blaring Public Enemy’s “Don’t Believe the Hype” cruised past Swope Park Pavilion during a performance by a quartet led by Alan Voss on Sunday, September 18.
Chuck D’s reference to John Coltrane in the rap anthem caused the sonic intrusion to intensify my blissful state. Few things could be better than hearing vital improvisations on an idyllic day at a spectacular venue.
The faithful rendering of Voss’ Baobab affirmed the reference to Steve Cardenas in my review of the album. Furthermore, I realized that Voss shares Pat Metheny’s melodic sensibility.
As on the 2023 recording, Voss’ vision was expertly facilitated by the multi-generational lineup of saxophonist Benjamin Baker, bassist Forest Stewart and drummer Evan Verploegh.
Sadly, there wasn’t much hype to disbelieve. A stray hound, a few fans, several musicians who had performed earlier and a drug dealer and his clientele heard what Chuck D and I might characterize as def jams.