Neta Raanan
Unforeseen Blossom
Giant Step Arts
Neta Raanan is a young tenor saxophonist from the great state of New Jersey. Unforeseen Blossom is her first recording as a leader. She made some brave choices for a first time leader — the record was recorded at a live gig at the Bar Bayeux in Brooklyn. Jazz iz a music that exists in its purest form in the moment, and Raanan captured that in this recording. The second unconventional thing she did is select a supportive band made up of vibraphonist Joel Ross, bassist Simón Willson, and drummer Kayvon Gordon. A safer choice would have been to use a piano player to flesh out the group, but Neta is a huge fan of Milt Jackson and Bobby Hutcherson, (especially their work with Eric Dolphy and Sonny Rollins) so the choice feels natural.
All the compositions on Unforeseen Blossom are Raanan originals. They have a dreamy quality that matches her velvety tone. Neta is generous, sharing the spotlight with her band members. Joel Ross often takes melodic leads and extended solos. As much as this is Neta’s showcase for her understated way with a solo, I’d say it’s equally a standout for Ross’s melodic vibes.
