Zachary Finnegan – Guidance and Gratitude

After many years as a sideman – most recently with Canadian star Michael Bublé – Chicago-based trumpeter Zachary Finnegan is embarking on a solo career, releasing his first album under his own name.

He clearly asserts his personality since eight of the nine themes in the repertoire are his own, the only standard being Bronislaw Kaper’s “Invitation“. And he presents himself at least as much as a composer as an instrumentalist, rarely claiming a leading role for his trumpet and flugelhorn. On the other hand, the writing is quite remarkable, allowing his bandmates to express themselves fully.

No stars in this sextet, but seasoned musicians who put their know-how at the service of a leader with whom they are in symbiosis. On three tracks, the group is augmented by a string quartet, which weaves discreet layers around melodies of great clarity.

The only electrified instrument in the ensemble, the guitar is particularly prominent in the solos and contributes greatly to the sound color of the ensemble, which blends the timbres of the alto and soprano saxophones and the trumpet and flugelhorn with a fine sense of nuance. As for the rhythm section, it features a lively piano, a bass with a delicious bounce and drums with a tonic, abundant play.

All in all, we have a music full of contrasts, very well composed and arranged, in the post-hard bop tradition without being backward-looking, and which allows us to hear musicians totally involved in a lively interaction that is a pleasure to follow.