"Guitarist Dan Effland is a groove machine."

Jeff Hedberg
THE SUMMER KNOWS—Blujazz BJ3323.

Set the table with long white candle sticks. Dress the filet mignon with a cream sauce. Uncork the Merlot. Hit play on the stereo with Jeff Hedberg’s new album and let a night of romance commence. The Summer Knows is the perfect album for such an occasion. In the tradition of Chet Baker, Hedberg sings through eleven standards—some lesser known—in a cool jazz style. While the album switches personnel and instrumentation frequently, it remains without drums lending to the light feel. Hedberg’s sparse flugelhorn solos are the icing on the cake. They are subdued, while yet being fiery, melodic, and while harmonically adventuresome. Consider his solo on “Stella By Starlight” to hear some of this.

While the tunes remain true to the harmonic integrity of the originals, the arrangements are developed with added interludes and unison sections. Perhaps my favorite display of creativity is near the end on the tune “Nica’s Dream.” The tune ends with guitarist Dan Effland and Hedberg performing a through-composed unison line. Bassist Josh Shapiro ends the tune with the response.

In addition to Hedberg’s savory aptitude, the supporting musicians are magnificent. Pianist Ken Spurr’s comping and lines are unmitigated swing. Guitarist Dan Effland is a groove machine. Wind him up and salivate over his intervallic lines, unyielding riffs, and pure blues. Nick Tountas and Josh Shapiro split the bass book. Both are like a rock: the time doesn’t move.

The Summers Knows is great album. Any fan of relaxed jazz will not be disappointed.

—Jazz Improv Magazine 2005