Review: Drawing deep inspiration from jazz legends like McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock and Geri Allen, Stevenson blends faith, identity and human experience into a exciting musical journey. His unique approach to composition, grounded in quartal harmony, modality and dramatic interplay within his trio, offers a sound that is both accessible and intellectually engaging. The album's title, El Roiimeaning "God of Sight"icaptures the themes explored within faith and identity. Through his storytelling, Stevenson delves into how one perceives the world around them, while reflecting on his relationship with faith. The compositions are marked by a strong sense of contrast, often starting with a central motif and expanding through varied melodic ideas. This creates a sound that resonates with listeners across genres. Following his debut album Faithful One, Stevenson continues to showcase his evolving style, combining spiritual narratives with modern jazz elements. His carefully chosen bandmates, including double bassist Jacob Gryn and drummer Joel Waters, contribute to a sound that is both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking.
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