2007 · Album
Back East
Recorded 1999 · Warner Bros. Records · Produced by Joshua Redman and Jay Newland
Redman Heads Home with Purpose
Back East finds Redman balancing introspection with the energy that defines his best work.
Back East arrives as one of those albums that feels necessary rather than flashy. Redman had already established himself as one of jazz's most reliable saxophonists, capable of swinging hard on anything from straightahead bebop to post-modern experimentation. But this record catches him in a reflective mood, working with a core group that understands his language intimately. The title itself suggests something deliberate—a return, a reconnection. What you hear is Redman playing with the kind of focus that comes from knowing exactly what you want to say.
The material here leans toward standards and jazz originals that give Redman room to think rather than just blow. His tone is warm but cutting, never oversold. There's a conversational quality to these performances, like Redman is having a private discussion with the rhythm section and inviting you to listen in. The arrangements breathe. Nothing feels rushed or overstuffed, which matters because it lets you hear what makes Redman tick—that combination of harmonic sophistication and straight-ahead swing that makes him one of the more complete saxophonists working.
If you're already familiar with Redman's work, this sits comfortably in the middle of his catalog—not a reinvention, not a peak moment, but a solid, confident statement. It's exactly the kind of album that rewards repeated listening without demanding your immediate attention. For new listeners, you might want to start with something with slightly more obvious charm, but this is a good place to hear Redman when he's thinking clearly and playing without ego.
Who's playing
Larry Grenadierbass
Reuben Rogersbass
Joshua Redmantenor saxophone
Joe Lovanotenor saxophone
Ali Jacksondrums
Brian Bladedrums
Eric Harlanddrums
Where next?
More by Joshua Redman
All 15 albums →
The musicians on this record
Without Further Ado, Vol 1 2009
Christian McBride
plays bass here
plays bass here
Mostly Coltrane 2009
Joe Lovano
plays tenor saxophone here
plays tenor saxophone here
