AMG Review of Teranga

Matt Collar
All Music Guide

After an extended layoff from studio recording, trumpeter Jon Faddis returns with Teranga. Taking its name from the Senegalese word for "hospitality," the album is an inspired and straightforward post-bop album and features Faddis in top form. Often driven by thick, acoustic basslines via Kiyoshi Kitagawa, Faddis' compositions are lush, visceral, and funky pieces that reveal the often flashy trumpeter's more enigmatic and thoughtful inclinations. Longtime fans shouldn't fear, though, as Faddis' sparkling tone and trademark monumental range remain intact and are showcased throughout. Besides his superb backing ensemble that includes pianist David Hazeltine and drummer Dion Parson, Faddis has also brought along such sympathetic collaborators as Senegalese percussionists Abdou M'Boup and Alioune Faye as well as baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan, trumpeter Clark Terry, and others.