KEY POINTS:
Herald Rating: * * *
Get used to hearing people refer to Lewis McCallum as "the next Nathan Haines". The sax and clarinet player is the next in line for the jazz'n'beats throne, having played live with Hollie Smith and Opensouls, Manhattan Transfer and the late Ray Charles. He's also worked with fellow Kiwi Mark de Clive-Lowe and London producer Phil Asher. Wake is his quality debut album marked by breezy melodies, competent arrangements and a clean, understated style. It's hard to ignore its deep musicality, its attention to detail, its subtle jazz nuances. McCallum takes care of everything from the drum programming to the keys, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto, tenor and soprano sax, flute and percussion. Despite his expertise in all areas, he's more than happy to put a spotlight on vocalists Cherie Mathieson, Tama Waipara, Tyra and Bjorn of Opensouls.
But if McCallum really wants to make an impression, he should take more risks with his beats. Whether it's the broken beats of Look Around, the P-Funk swing of Fly Or Die, or the handbag house of Where?, Wake sounds dated in parts. And although it's mostly a lively affair, it has a harmless, noodly feel that makes you want to invite all your middle-class pals over for cheese fondue.
Label: Rhythm Method
Verdict: Harmonically rich debut from Kiwi nu-jazz man
