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Stories   >   Theo Croker - AfroPhysicist / Latin Jazz Network review

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Theo Croker - AfroPhysicist / Latin Jazz Network review

Posted: July 31, 2014

Theo Croker is the epitome of the sound of surprise. He comes suddenly from behind and sideways – never from the front – seizing heart and mind like an excited friend who shutting the eyes, begging a "Guess who?" And he asks, "Am I a jazzist, a bluesist, or a rhythm & blues horn player?" The answer is never obvious. As the pondering begins, he reveals himself "I am Theo Croker. I am all of those things rolled into Dark Funk." And then he plays. His elegantly piercing tone textures ring in the ears, informed by great New Orleans trumpet masters – Louis Armstrong and Mr. Croker's own grandfather, Doc Cheatham. And Mr.Croker also has the sparkling tonal wit of an impetuous young man as well as the deep erudition of an old one. His timbre is sometimes sharp – even harsh – and at other times husky – even whisper soft. He is, quite simply a brilliant young musician.

Dee Dee Bridgewater has produced Afro Physicist. A very wise decision on her part. On "Alpha for Doc," it is possible to first see why. His notes are anguished and long to begin with; then short and searing, elliptical, like arcs of fire. He continues in this fashion, later in the album. as well, increasing the length of his short bursts and his long lines seem to become interminable. They also bounce wickedly like a bicycle with oblong wheels. READ THE FULL Latin Jazz Network REVIEW.