Steve Nelson - Communications (Criss Cross, 1990)

This post is by Dan

Steve Nelson (vib); Mulgrew Miller (p); Ray Drummond (b); Tony Reedus (d)

Recorded December 30, 1987

While researching Steve Nelson's discography, I was surprised to learn that he has led only about a dozen albums in his entire career. Several of these are on the Japanese Venus and the Italian Red labels. But he does not lack exposure in the jazz world. Discogs credits him with 164 appearances on albums dating back to 1977. 

Even casual jazz fans have probably heard Nelson's work with the Dave Holland Quintet. He's an integral part of the chemistry of that unit, replacing the customary piano with his vibes. At least nine albums by the DHQ benefit from Nelson's contributions. 

Communications was Nelson's first session as a leader. He's got a dynamite rhythm section to work with. Mulgrew Miller was a frequent collaborator with Nelson, who dedicated his Brothers Under the Sun album (HighNote, 2017) to the pianist. Miller is featured throughout Communications, contributing provocative solos that complement Nelson's five original compositions and four standards. 

Nelson's original compositions give the album a distinct flavor. "Anten Hymn" is especially interesting in its construction and makes a solid impact. "Dignity" is aptly titled, and I can't think of another jazz tune that expresses honor and respect so clearly. Almost every human quality is open to jazz expression, but dignity is rarely addressed. The two original blues numbers on Communications convey an enjoyably relaxed feel. With composition like these, Nelson distinguished himself as a major composer and soloist in the vibraphone fraternity.

Things heat up on the standard "The Song is You," showcasing Nelson's speed on the vibes and Tony Reedus' drum solo. The vibist also offers an adventurous solo on "I Didn't Know What Time It Was," which ends with a free-form coda. 

Note: There is a reference on the CD booklet to additional recording on October 11, 1989, but the nine tunes on the CD were all recorded on December 20, 1987. I haven't been able to find an explanation. It does not appear to be one of those attempts to expand a CD version because there is no LP version.