Aliso

Released in 2010, Aliso represents a significant moment in David Binney’s prolific career, showcasing his ability to lead a high-caliber ensemble through incredibly demanding compositions. Recorded in Brooklyn, the album features a 'who's who' of modern jazz, including guitarist Wayne Krantz and drummers/pianists like Dan Weiss and John Escreet. The record is notable for its blend of original compositions and reimagined classics, such as Wayne Shorter's 'Teru' and Sam Rivers' 'Fuchsia Swing Song'. Sonically, it is defined by Binney's sharp alto tone and a production style that emphasizes clarity despite the dense, overlapping textures. Critically, it is often cited as a prime example of the 'New York Sound' of the late 2000s - complex, rhythmically advanced, and unapologetically modern. The album's centerpiece, the nearly 14-minute 'Africa', demonstrates the group's capacity for sustained, high-level collective improvisation and structural development.