Release Date: 26 September 2025
Label: Savant Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 633842222622
Description
Tenor saxophonist JD Allen, well known for pushing the envelope with albums that mix electronics and advanced compositional techniques, takes a striking turn on 'Love Letters (The Ballad Sessions)'. This time, he sets aside the modernist experiments and heads straight for the heart with an album made up entirely of ballads from the Great American Songbook. It's an unexpected move from Allen, and it reveals a different side of his playing-warm, introspective, and deeply lyrical.
For this outing, he expands his usual chordless trio by bringing pianist Brandon McCune into the mix, joining longtime collaborators Ian Kenselaar on bass and Nic Cacioppo on drums. The addition of a piano brings a new layer of harmonic color, expanding the expressive range of the entire group while exploring the emotional possibilities within these classic standards.
A soulful, stripped-down take on timeless tunes, this album showcases the depth and honesty JD Allen is known for, as he invites his colleagues to slow down and express something personal-with clarity, restraint, and quiet power.
Tracklisting
Alan Broadbent Trio
Jim Snidero
Denise Donatelli
Conrad Herwig
Bill O'Connell
Mike LeDonne
JD Allen
Louis Hayes
JD Allen
JD Allen
JD Allen
JD Allen
JD Allen
JD Allen
JD Allen
