Alexis Valet, Following the Sun Review

by Brice Boorman

In the autumn of 2022, French jazz vibraphonist Alexis Valet set out on an odyssey that would bridge the Atlantic, seeking inspiration in the heart of the New York jazz scene. His sojourn in the Big Apple, characterized by intense musical exploration and collaboration, culminated in the creation of Following the Sun, an album that embodies the spirit of transatlantic jazz fusion.

Valet’s choice of companions on this journey speaks volumes about his ambition and vision. With Dayna Stephens on tenor saxophone, Aaron Parks on piano, Joe Martin on double bass, and Kush Abadey on drums, Valet has surrounded himself with some of the most compelling voices in contemporary jazz. Together, they navigate a musical landscape that merges New York’s vivacity with European jazz traditions’ sophistication.

Following the Sun flows as a tale of exploration, growth, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Each track is a character in Valet’s story, reflecting the myriad of experiences and influences he encountered during his time in New York City.

The album opens with “Ups and Downs,” a piece that encapsulates the frenetic energy and unpredictable rhythms of urban life. Valet’s vibraphone and Stephens’ tenor saxophone interact to create a dialogue, while Abadey’s drumming propels the feel with incisive precision, capturing the essence of New York’s bustling streets. The composition’s form transitions to a more lyrical, reflective section, showcasing Valet’s skill as a composer and performer.

“June” shifts the mood to a more groove-oriented space. The interaction between the melody and rhythm section is excellent in the written portions of the compositions. Parks’ piano solo is centered and connects with Martin’s bass, as Abadey’s subtle cymbal work adds colors. Stephens’ solo is a building expression of emotional intensity, his saxophone screams and intervallic creativity evoking the promise of freedom and the thrill of summer days.

Composed in the hours after a challenging jam session, “Dream of Integrity” is Valet’s capturing of an emotion in music with depth. The piece features European-style harmonies with an American jazz cross-rhythm section. Valet’s solo is a journey through this colorful and shifting terrain, his melodic acuity and clarity shining as our guide as he navigates the composition’s intricate structure.

“Laika” stands out as a deeply moving ballad inspired by the tragic fate of the Soviet space dog. Parks’ melancholic piano introduction, Stephens’ heartrending saxophone melody, and Valet’s sensitive vibraphone performance define this piece as a poignant reflection on loss and sacrifice.

The title track, “Following the Sun,” is a sonic homage to the musicians who participated in the album and a nod to the jazz greats who continue to inspire Valet. The composition finds the ensemble developing multiple feels. Valet and his ensemble have a clear and respectful interplay, a testament to their collective artistry.

“Cypher” bridges the worlds of jazz and hip-hop, with a bass line that evokes the interlacing circles of rappers and beatboxers. Each musician listens to the music and each other to develop a sound that is individually compelling and collectively cohesive. The refrain provides a unifying structure, making “Cypher” a standout track highlighting the power of mixing genres.

“Lekeitio” is dynamic, with Abadey’s drumming and Stephens’ vibrant solo evoking rhythmic textures that flow naturally. The piece has a familiar harmonic progression, and energy comes from the ensemble’s luminous rhythmic explorations.

The album closes with “Myrtle,” a composition inspired by the metro station near Valet’s New York residence. This upbeat track captures the hopes and dangers of urban life, with Valet’s vibraphone delivering a rousing improvisation.

Following the Sun blends European sophistication and New York’s vibrant jazz energy. Alexis Valet’s transatlantic voyage has resulted in an album that explores jazz’s evolving characters. With his ensemble, Valet has crafted a record based on collaboration, the importance of artistic integrity, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence.