David Sanborn, expert opinion please

[MUTTY1]

As a jazz novice finding his way around, bought 'Voyeur' as a punt
to try him out , partly a review, but very taken by the cover - full size, not your mealy Cd postage stamp !!
The LP is a bit funky for my taste but I love the way he plays alto sax and there are tantalising moments of originality in there.
Anyone who knows the man and knows most/ all of his output; can they point me in the right direction?
I understand from 'allmusic.com' that he was catholic in his output - i'm looking for the jazz side of this.

Thanks

Paul

 

[sideshowbob]

My expert opinion is he's dreadful and lacks cajones. If you want real alto playing try Ornette Coleman, Change of the Century is a good place to start. Or, of course, Charlie Parker. The Complete Dial Sessions is essential.

-- Ian

 

[MUTTY1]

then you may have a point. On the sounds he makes I can't agree. However may have a sneaky look at your recommendations except charlie parker.

 

[John]

Straight to the Heart is my favorite, though I don't have any of his output after 1988.

 

[Fretless Eric]

Personally I wouldn't call his music Jazz at all, it is a soft sort of funk. Having seen him and have "Straight to the heart" and "Voyeur" I think "Straight... " is more representative.

I also think Marcus Miller is better on his own [try "Tales"] than with Dave. Nowadays I find too much alto is taxing on the ear.

My verdict - pleasant enough.

Cheers.

 

[MUTTY1]

Love your moniker !

I understood that he did a number of different styles of music over time - ie: catholic in output. I just like his playing of the alto. Music on 'Voyeur' is as you say 'pleasant enough' - damning praise and I agree. but there must be an album out there without the commercial side ?

Paul

 

[Fretless Eric]

I would like to think there is as well but I have never heard of it. I treated his output as one of those side turnings along the way.

I do really like Alto though and he does sound like himself; it is hard enough to have an original voice.

I think he has rightly gained respect.

[P.Ss. I doubt very much if he would describe his music as Jazz]

Long live the Fretless Bass!