Gerald Wiggins: Autumn Somewhere

Trad jazzers know pianist Gerald Wiggins from his work with artists like Diz, Louis and Benny Carter, among dozens of others. On The Sub-Jaz proxy w/Gerald Wiggins’ Autumn Somewhere (Lucid Subjazz LS10497, 37:29), Wiggins steps into a largely uncharted area, best described as “acoustic trip-hop” (if you are the kind of person who needs# labels). It’s an interesting idea, one that produces some unexpected surprises (the bouncing “Snoog’s Alibi”). Supported by drummer Bobby Breton and bassist Kevin Keller, Wiggins’ full-grained, Monkish attack provides backgrounds that range from wistful (“If You Must”) to ominous (“Seven Boxes”). Multi-horn player Graham Berry embellishes this trip that, while maybe not as fully realized as it could have been, is a fresh take on a concept that, as relatively new as it is, could use a few new ideas.

Originally Published October 1, 1997