Joris Teepe: Going Dutch

He’s long been regarded among Europe’s finest bassists, and Joris Teepe does nothing to hurt his reputation on Going Dutch, his seventh release as a leader. While mainly a showcase for his writing facility, the band also does two credible if a bit unusual versions of Wayne Shorter’s “Footprints” and John Coltrane’s “Syeeda’s Song Flute.” Each has exemplary playing from ace players trumpeter/flugelhornist Randy Brecker, tenor/soprano saxophonist Don Braden, pianist George Colligan and drummer George Jackson, plus Teepe has slightly altered their arrangement. Still, everyone sounds far more energized and electrifying doing Teepe’s works, from the 12-minute-plus workout tune “The Princess and the Monster,” to the short but entertaining “Nanananana” and more musically explosive “Inventions in Maine” and “Win Win Situation.” Everything on these pieces, from the opening and closing melodies to the group exchanges and solos, has more musical precision and vitality and less politeness than the performances on the covers. That’s not to say any of Teepe’s numbers will become classics (though “The Princess and the Monster” has real promise). It’s just that they are new, ongoing works rather than established classics, which can be more intimidating than revealing.

Originally Published March 1, 2006