A Reason for Being Alone by Alex Levin Trio

Other notable tracks include, "Emma's Ennui" featuring {William} Martina's cello work in an enjoyable Samba feel, "For Pete's Sake" exploring several novel themes as a showcase of Levin's considerable talent (and as an appropriate tribute to his teacher), and "Polar Bear Waltz" living up to its original title. "Blues through Stained Glass" is an intriguing ending to the CD. Listen and maybe even write down your initial impression before reading Levin's track notes on his website. You will probably be surprised by how much the true mood of this piece comes through in the recording.

It seems that Alex Levin had a very good "reason for being alone," allowing himself the time and space to create an exceptional CD of original compositions. It also seems that he will need much better reasons in the near future as the success of his work takes him in new and exciting directions.

Paul Sakion - Jazz Improv Magazine (May 4, 2007)

Pianist/Composer Alex Levin’s new CD entitled, A Reason for Being Alone, provides yet another angle to the rich straight ahead jazz tradition with a set of creative originals that provide a sense of freshness, yet familiarity, through the use of various styles, varied instrumentation, solid writing, and well executed playing by all.

The central core of the project is comprised of: Levin on piano, drummer Taylor Davis and Diallo House on acoustic bass. This central core is augmented on various selections by: Max Hacker and Stacey Dillard (tenor saxophones), Chad Coe (guitar), and William Martina (cello). The opening track, “Blues on Thursday,” brings to mind Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with a bluesy unison sax melody that is juxtaposed against relaxed hits by the band. This mid-tempo swing selection has some fine tenor sax playing by both Max Hacker and Stacey Dillard. Levin provides a beautiful intro to “A Reason for Being Alone” that is very reminiscent of Keith Jarrett. The composition develops into a straight eight pulsed selection with Levin displaying his ability to build a solo with clearly articulated themes and moods which are all nicely matched by House and Davis. Image

“Emma’s Ennui” provides a nice texture change with the addition of William Martina on cello and Chad Coe on nylon strung guitar. The relaxed bossa nova’s melody and harmony is a cross between “Gentle Rain” and “How Insensitive.” Again this provides the listener with a sense of freshness, yet familiarity, all conveyed with thoughtful articulate playing. “Her Solitary Wish” finds the trio in full blowin’ swing mode that will bring back thoughts of the Miles Davis cool cookin’ relaxin’ and steamin’ sounds. “Your Call” is a great modern swing selection! Levin’s voicings are laden with rich sounding fours and seconds and his solo is just swingin’! Max Hacker (tenor sax) is no hack either!

This is a great find! The sound quality is great and the playing is the same. The familiarity of material that is always presented with freshness and thoughtfulness is sure to grab the jazz fans ears and give them A Reason for Being Alone with the Alex Levin’s musical novel, which will hopefully have a sequel soon!

Carmel DeSoto - Jazz Police (May 4, 2007)

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