Hi-Res Downloads

96kHz/24-bit FLAC, Blue Note BLU B002334502 (supplied by www.highresaudio.com)

OK, so Scott Oracle’s début album for the famous Blue Note jazz label lives up to its title by opening with drums, but this isn’t a typical drummer’s album, with the tub-thumping all but dominating the mix to the detriment of the other performers. Yes, there are the inevitable drum solos, but this is much more of an ensemble set, with Scott joined by saxophonist John Ellis, keyboardist Taylor Eigsti, guitarist Mike Moreno, and bassist Joe Sanders, along with vocalist Lizz Wright. Scott seemed happy to play his part in the band rather than being the star turn. As he puts it, ‘The accent is on “we” in the title. There is a lot of space for each player to have their say.’ That’s something the crisp, clean recording emphasises, with excellent instrumental textures even in what become quite dense mixes, and lots to both please the ear and tap the foot. AE

Sound Quality: 85%

Hi-Fi News Lab Report

Recording notes are sketchy but there is a deal of ultrasonic noise and spuriae associated with, but not originating from, the drum feed (absent on trk 11, the solo keyboard version of trk 7 – in green). Dynamic range is healthy, however. PM