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Juggernaut

Equilibrium Records, Inc.
(Distributed by Albany Records)
Catalogue Number: CD49
Release Date: Sept. 24, 2002
Sonata for Alto Saxophone and Piano David Maslanka
1. Mov. I Publ. by NASA
2. Mov. II
3. Mov. III


Juggernaut Rob Smith
4. For Alto Saxophone and Piano Publ. by Skitter Music


Wings Joan Tower
5. For Solo Alto Saxophone Publ. by G. Schirmer


Deep Blue Spiral David Heuser
6. For Alto Saxophone and Tape Publ. by NON Sequitor music


Review:
Alto saxophonist Jeremy Justeson and pianist Carla McElhaney join forces on two energetic, contemporary works for sax/piano duo-David Maslanka's traditionally structured, narrative sonata and Rob Smith's syncopated and mysterious Juggernaut. Wings, Joan Tower's impressionistic study of bird flight for solo sax, and David Heuser's adrenaline-rush Deep Blue Spiral round out this exhilarating recording.
American Music Center, New Music Box, Issue 43 - Vol.4, No.7

Reviewed by Paul Wagner for the July/August 2003 Saxophone Journal

Jeremy Justeson is one very impressive saxophonist with complete command of the horn. His tone is lovely with a strong center that softens at the edges. The expressiveness of his sound goes from the gentle side of life to the strong aggressive side. His vibrato varies to fit the musical situation. These first two qualities already give musical credibility to the magic of his performance. His melodic lines come alive and swirl around in your mind creating a beautiful sense of excitement and emotion. He has incredible technique that is blindingly fast, with superb control. He has full control of the wide dynamic possibilities of the saxophone. The altissimo register is impeccable as the sound floats to the ear. The staccatos are delightful points of sound that are precisely in their place.

The first two selections on this CD are accompanied by pianist Dr. Carla McElhaney, and what an incredible duo this team makes. They truly share the music and give it life. They perform on an intuitive level that surrounds the listener and then sweeps them away into the musical drama being created.
The first piece is Sonata for Alto Saxophone and Piano by David Maslanka. This is a moving piece in three movements. The lines are heart wrenching and brought to a point of exhilaration in this recording. The first movement is filled with all the majesty and passion that can be mustered by an awesome epic fantasy adventure. Skipping ahead, the third movement grabs the ear immediately and does not let go.

Juggernaut, by Rob Smith, was commissioned by Jeremy Justeson. The piece is very descriptive and a challenge to perform. It does require circular breathing and the absolute mastery of the altissimo register. This is an excellent addition to the altos’ repertoire. Wings, by Joan Tower, is next and was originally for solo clarinet, yet in 1991 the composer rearranged it for solo alto saxophone. It captures the essence of flight and Justeson is the perfect pilot for the piece.

The final selection is Deep Blue Spiral for Alto Saxophone and Tape by David Heuser. This is a terrific piece that belongs in the jazz world as well. Prepare yourself for a wild ride into your imagination. The rhythms are driving and exciting while the whole piece is absolutely fascinating.

Jeremy Justeson’s CD, Juggernaut, is a definite must get recording. It is truly a fascinating performance with the listener being gently carried in a master’s hand.

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