Transient Journey

Album Review

Trumpeter Pharez Whitted is a veteran jazz educator who has performed with Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, George Duke, Elvin Jones, Slide Hampton, and Ramsey Lewis, among others, in addition to recording two earlier CDs of his own. Relocating to Chicago prior to the making of this release, Whitted penned 11 originals, supported by a potent sextet including guitarist Bobby Broom, saxophonist Eddie Bayard, keyboardist Ron Perrillo, bassist Dennis Carroll, and drummer Greg Artry. Whitted's expressive tone is a highlight of every track, though he is hardly one to hog the show. This well-paced disc starts with "The Truth Seeker," a lively blend of bop and funk, followed by the loping "Transient Journey." His playful "Monkish" is a breezy affair, inspired by the dissonant sounds and humor of Thelonious Monk, but cast in a brisk bop setting; Perrillo's fun-filled acoustic piano and the leader's crackling trumpet lead the way. Whitted's infectious Latin-flavored "Until Tomorrow Comes" showcases his lyrical technique on flügelhorn. Another gem is the bittersweet ballad "Soul Mates." Pharez Whitted disproves the old folk saying of "Those who can't do, teach"; this gifted musician leaves no doubt.