Eneidi's Wiry Glow in Oakland
Eneidi blows fiercely enough to make his wiry saxophone glow, with Robinson as the quiet engine.
Cherry Box opens on a trio that sounds like it is working hard and enjoying every minute of it. Marco Eneidi's alto saxophone is thin, tight, and restless, pushing into the upper register with a bright, nervous energy, while William Parker's bass sits under him in a dense, forward-leaning pulse. Donald Robinson's drums move constantly but rarely demand attention, shifting textures and keeping the momentum loose. The overall feel is lean and direct, more raw blowing than polished arrangement.
The record was recorded at Mills College in Oakland in 1998 and released on Eremite. It is a trio date with no frills: Eneidi, Parker, and Robinson playing at close range, letting the music breathe in the room. The Penguin Guide to Jazz singles out this session as Eneidi at his best, and the praise fits. He is more fiery here than on quieter outings, and the energy carries the record. Robinson is the one to listen for, since his accompaniment is tireless but never showy.
If you are coming to Eneidi for the first time, this is a good place to hear him at full throttle in a small group. It is not his most famous document, but it is a strong, unfussy example of what he does best. Parker fans will also find the record worth time, though here he is part of a team rather than the focus.
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