Cory Weeds – Dig Weeds!

The email read, "Are you Cory Weeds, the tenor player?" It was from Kevin Gray, who has worked on several mastering projects for my archival record label Reel to Real. The question struck me as odd - my name is pretty unique, and luckily I'm pretty sure there's only one Cory Weeds. I answered and confirmed that I was indeed that guy. Kevin then asked if I wanted to make a record for him. My self-deprecating wit kicked in and I replied, "Why would you want ME to make a record for you?" Kevin was very polite and told a remarkable story: his granddaughter Amber is beginning to share his love of jazz music. One day she saved a piece that she liked and thought her grandfather would like too. She played it for him, and Kevin was actually impressed. It turned out to be "Blue Daniel" from my Dreamsville album that I had recorded with Jeff Hamilton.

To receive a compliment from Kevin Gray - a man who spends his days remastering Blue Note records by legends like Dexter Gordon, Hank Mobley and Joe Henderson - is incredible. But impressing a college student who's still in her teens? That's something else entirely. Conversations began, appointments were made, and before I knew it, I was on a plane to Los Angeles with my good friend and pianist David Hazeltine. Recording for Cohearent Records is a unique experience, a throwback to the early 1950s - musicians in close quarters, all in the same room, with minimal microphones. There is no separation between the instruments, no processing, and the mixing is done in real time. This setup requires the band to be tight and confident. David Hazeltine, one of my closest friends and favorite musicians on the planet, was the perfect choice for this session. David delivered a stunning arrangement of the rarely played gem "Deep in a Dream" and co-wrote "Everything's Coming Up Weeds" with me, both highlights of the record.

David's genius is subtle. He gives everything a subtle, magical touch. The weekend before leaving for L.A., David joined me in Vancouver to perform the material at Frankie's Jazz Club. The live workshopping was a crucial step in making this recording a success. Also on board were bassist Neal Miner and drummer Byron Landham. Neal's incredible musicianship is matched only by his friendliness. His big, fat, round sound was essential to the intimate setup of the recording. Byron is a deeply swinging drummer with a great feel, and he brought it all together beautifully. I've rarely worked with a producer on my own recordings, and when I have, it's always been someone I know and trust. So when Kevin suggested Joe Harley as a producer, I was skeptical - not because I doubted his abilities, but because he spends his time going through the Blue Note archives and carefully choosing which records to reissue. He always listens to the greatest tenor players of all time. Did I really want this guy in the booth to listen to me? NO! Joe's response to my initial email asking about his "style" of producing put me at ease though. His calm, warm demeanor set the tone for the entire session. He brought just the right amount of encouragement and advice without ever getting stressed or impatient. I will never forget this opportunity. Kevin and his team - including Charlene, who cooked an unforgettable chicken soup - created an incredibly comfortable and inspiring environment for the recording. I think the music reflects that. I hope you enjoy it! (Cory Weeds)

Cory Weeds, saxophone

David Hazeltine, piano

Neal Miner, bass

Byron "Wookie" Landham, drums