Terell Stafford, Between Two Worlds Review

Terell Stafford’s album, Between Two Worlds, is an intricate collection of nine songs filled with craftsmanship. Released in September 2023 by Le Coq Records, the album shows Stafford’s versatility and depth as a musician. The album’s genesis, deeply rooted in the poignant experiences of the pandemic era, reflects in its nine tracks a journey of emotional tumult and introspection.

The ensemble, carefully curated and brilliantly cohesive, features the talents of Johnathan Blake on drums and David Wong’s bass playing, which adds depth and emotional resonance. On piano, Bruce Barth is a revelation, his fingers dancing across the keys with a blend of technical mastery and expressive lyricism. The album is further enriched by the versatile tenor and soprano saxophone contributions of Tim Warfield, and the percussion is vividly brought to life by the legendary Alex Acuña, whose rhythms are intricate and invigorating. Each ensemble member brings their unique voice to the table, creating a tapestry of sound that is as diverse as it is harmonious, perfectly encapsulating the spirit and thematic richness of Between Two Worlds.

The title track, “Between Two Worlds,” composed by Victor Lewis, sets a profound tone for the album. Stafford’s rendition of the melody, accompanied by a rhythm section, is a fine example of jazz’s expressive power. His solo is melodic as he gracefully navigating the up-tempo swing with elegance. Warfield’s saxophone and Barth’s piano solos complement Stafford’s performance, showcasing a robust harmonic chemistry and a delightful exploration of the tune’s harmonic possibilities.

“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” stands out for its elegant arrangement and the addition of Latin rhythms. Stafford’s and Warfield’s melodic play, combined with Barth’s Latin jazz-infused piano, create a soulful tribute to those lost to the pandemic. This track particularly highlights Stafford’s ability to blend different jazz styles seamlessly.

“Mi a Mia” continues the Latin jazz theme but with a modern twist. Warfield’s choice of soprano saxophone adds a warm, elastic quality to the piece. The percussion solos by Acuña and the piano break by Barth are particularly noteworthy, adding vibrant energy to the track.

“Two Hearts as One” offers a contrast as a reflective ballad. Stafford’s muted trumpet, paired with Barth’s piano, creates an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. Wong’s bowed bass solo is a stunning addition, encapsulating the mood of the piece perfectly.

The album also pays homage to jazz greats like Horace Silver with “Room 608” and Billy Strayhorn with “Blood Count,” arranged by Barth. These tracks demonstrate Stafford’s and his ensemble’s ability to respect jazz traditions while bringing a fresh perspective.

“Manaus at Dusk” and “Wruth’s Blues” further showcase the ensemble’s versatility, with the latter being a celebration of life through jazz blues. The relaxed swing shuffle of “Wruth’s Blues” allows each musician ample room for expression, with a subtle nod to New Orleans jazz.

Overall, Between Two Worlds is a narrative woven through melodies and rhythms. Stafford’s trumpet playing, blending strength with vulnerability, is the centerpiece of this narrative. Supported by an outstanding ensemble, each track on the album is a chapter in a story of resilience, change, and the beauty of music as a reflective tool. This album is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Stafford’s extensive career, showcasing his evolution as a musician and an artist.