AMG Review of Sam I Am

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Twenty-five at the time, tenor saxophonist Sam Newsome made his recording debut as a leader in rather fast company on this modern, straight-ahead set, teaming up with vibraphonist Steve Nelson, pianist Mulgrew Miller, bassist James Genus, and drummer Billy Drummond. Newsome holds his own, displaying a large tone and a fertile imagination on five standards and two of his originals. Highlights include "Intimacy of the Blues," "In the Vein of Trane" (which is similar to "Afro Blue"), "Indiana," and "Pent-Up House." Every selection is well worth hearing and Newsome sounds quite inspired by his surroundings and the stimulating material.