Momentum

In lieu of a traditional jazz recording that essentially captures a working band live with a minimum of overdubs, saxophonist Redman uses the studio as a creative tool superbly on his second Elastic Band project, the funky, lyrical "Momentum." It is his most adventurous and mature outing to date. Redman and bandmate Sam Yahel recorded the sessions live. Then, with master strokes, they manipulated the sonics, more in keeping with the way pop artists record. Case in point: the groove-heavy "Swunk," a montage-like piece with impromptu frolic, multiple rhythm layers, guitar harmony by Kurt Rosenwinkel and a vibes blanket by Stefon Harris, whose performance was reversed and looped throughout the mix. The playing is inspired, especially the open-ended snippets of studio jams. Guests include Meshell Ndegeocello, the Red Hot Chili Peppers' Flea and the Roots' Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson.—Dan Ouellette