29th October 2020: ‘In Common 2’ from Walter Smith III and Matthew Stevens – press highlights include DownBeat Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Jazz Weekly and more

In Common 2 is the much-anticipated second instalment of the In Common series, a collection of albums that explore one-sheet forms with some of the finest musicians on the New York scene. Much has changed in the world since we released IC2 in May – here’s a recap of the deservedly great things the international press have been saying the last few months.

It’s available on 12″ LP 180g Limited Edition White Vinyl, CD & DL: here.

‘The structure doesn’t box the music in… If anything, it seems to energize the rhythm section, which in turn brings out the best of Stevens and Smith. Listen to how the itchy pulse beneath ‘General George Washington’ sparks a taut solo from Smith and churning lines from Stevens’ acoustic.”
DownBeat Magazine ★★★★1/2 (full review)

“A wide range of influences arrive unselfconsciously in the music on these recordings, and both the leaders and their side people are blending them into interesting amalgams that sound perfectly natural and very timely.”
The Wall Street Journal (full review)

“This album makes an excellent case for Smith to be one of the most important of this generation’s tenor saxophonists.”
Jazz Weekly (full review)

“One of those rare albums in jazz most notable for its group sound and collective concept.”
Hot House Jazz (full review)

“There is continuity and natural evolution… A very successful second recording that bodes well for a third.”
New York City Jazz Record (website)

“Replete with magnificent ideas.”
JazzTrail (full review)

“A stirring mix of structure and improv, funk and free-form – a useful update on where some of New York’s most creative players are headed.”
London Jazz News (full review)

“A masterclass in how to put together a cohesive and dynamic band performing original music.”
Black Grooves (full review) 

“Sharp-as-a-tack follow-up to the well-received In Common; this will appeal to a broad range of jazz lovers.”
The Moderns (full review)