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A wistful ballad, For Wes has a melody that comes from the heart. The leaps in the melody give its line an appealing contour. This composition is dedicated to Wes Montgomery, and Steve performs the solo section with a double time feel a la Wes Montgomery.
Steve Nelson often takes his compositions in unusual harmonic directions, but these changes include many ii-V-I progressions and are not overly difficult for soloing. For Wes would make an emotional tribute to the much-beloved guitarist in any set, but it stands on its own as a perfect choice for anyone who loves a ballad with a beautiful melody.
The release "Fuller Nelson" is a follow-up to the same trio's 1989 release of "Full Nelson." Ray Drummond was the bassist on Steve's debut album as a leader, "Communications," (also 1989) and Steve played on Ray's 1989 session "Camera In A Bag" as well as Ray's 1994 session "Continuum." Since then, they have worked together on sessions for Billy Drummond, Renee Rosnes, and tenor saxophonist Houston Person. Before "Full Nelson" in 1989, Steve and Kirk Lightsey worked together on two David "Fathead" Newman sessions (1986 and 1988).
Vibraphonist Steve Nelson's career began in the early 1970s. His first touring experience was with the legendary guitarist Grant Green. Steve cites Milt Jackson as his first major influence, although in later years he developed a harmonically open sound influenced by Bobby Hutcherson. While attending the State University of New Jersey at Rutgers then-new jazz program, he met pianist Kenny Barron, drummer Freddie Waits, guitarist Ted Dunbar and reedman James Spaulding, who were all faculty members. Through them, he began to perform in New York City. In 1976, at age 22, Steve recorded with James Spaulding ("Plays The Music Of Duke Ellington"), and in 1980 recorded albums with Kenny Barron and Ted Dunbar. Read more...
