Product Description Produced by Quincy Jones, Dedication is the Jazz Village debut by piano prodigy Justin Kauflin. The album features twelve original compositions by Kauflin. His style embodies - without being derivative - the ''quiet fire'' lyricism of Bill Evans (whom Kauflin credits as his ''biggest influence at age 14''), the nimble and mercurial qualities of Bud Powell, the genial melodiousness of Herbie Hancock and a bit of Dave Brubeck's gregarious percussiveness. Kauflin's side men on the album are Billy Williams on drums, Chris Smith on bass, Matt Stevens on guitar and Etan Haziza on nylon guitar. Kauflin is also the subject of the award-winning documentary Keep On Keepin' On, which chronicles his mentorship and friendship with the legendary musician and teacher Clark Terry. The film won Best New Documentary Director and the Heineken Audience Award at New York's prestigious Tribeca Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Boulder Film Festival. Review As a pianist, Mr. Kauflin, 28, favors a clarity of touch and ideas, rarely spinning into an orbit he cant control. His writing is also balanced, tempering post-bop intricacies with the assurances of the gospel church --The New York TimesIt is a voice that is mature, distinct and confident...On 'For Clark,' Kauflin manufactures complex, intelligent solo passages over a simple melody that drives the song to a spare, heartwarming conclusion --Downbeat MagazineTwelve original tunes...take the listener from hushed tones to tempos ablaze, showing a generous degree of skill, maturity and creativity in the spaces between the notes. Justin Kauflin's knack for making a statement, marvelously build on it, then bring the listener home demands more than a single listen --WBGO Newark NJ
G**R
Saw Justin Kauflin perform at his alma mater, Wm ...
Saw Justin Kauflin perform at his alma mater, Wm. Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey. He stood out as a student and he is in the process of developing and maturing (quickly) as a professional. His style is not exactly rhythmic, but it is thoughtful and very enjoyable.
M**J
Fantastic new talent
Fantastic new talent. . . . why this album has not been up for a Grammy award is beyond me. Only suggestion I have is to give Justin a bit more time to stretch out on his solos. I'm not sure Quincy Jones is good for extraordinarily talented new jazz artists. Justin will never be bought along with Bruno Mars. Let Justin be Justin - let him play!!!!! Great album. Great young man. . . . there is hope for Jazz.
C**N
Justin second album was a bit disappointing although his playing ...
Justin second album was a bit disappointing although his playing was expected he didn't come out shinning as on the first album.
C**N
Absolutely stunning. So many influences woven together but still ...
Absolutely stunning. So many influences woven together but still a unique voice emerges.
A**9
Great Album
I could listen to this album all day. I love it.
A**O
Justin's Da Man
Justin Kauflin is a splended performer, having great musicianship, creativity and composing skills. Owning this CD is a wonderful complement to owning the DVD of the film he's featured in, "Keep on Keepin' On" about him and his relationshiip with the extraordinary Clark Terry.
V**N
Next Generation of Jazz
Mentored by Clark Terry and Quincy Jones should tell you the talent this young man has...the next generation of jazz starts with Justin.
B**G
Great music. When you know the story of Mr
Great music. When you know the story of Mr. Kauflin, you to will want to listen over and over. Amazing talent.
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