Emergence (2000)

About this title: Emergence begins with a bang but then goes gradually downhill. Plaxico alternates between acoustic and electric bass, and mightily tries to reconcile the jazz and funk elements of his vision. Although most tracks feature driving rhythms, incredibly intricate horn writing, and compelling solos, the album grows numbingly repetitive as it proceeds. On the jazz side, "Transformation" begins the record with riveting post-bop fire, while "Libertarian" and "Red Light District" provide new perspectives on the standards "Dear Old Stockholm" and "Love for Sale," respectively. On the funk side, ... read more

Tracks:

1. The Mahayanna (Great Vehicle) (Interlude) [Plaxico/Haynes]
2. Transformation [Plaxico/Braden/Lune]
3. Delusion [Plaxico/Braden/Lune]
4. Emergence [Plaxico/Braden/Lune]
5. Paramita (To Arrive at the Other Side) Interlude [Plaxico/Haynes]
6. Libertarian [Plaxico/Braden/Lune]
7. Changing Lines [Plaxico/Bradley/Lew]
8. Emancipation [Plaxico/Braden/Ales]
9. Red Light District [Plaxico/Braden/Ales]
10. Sokoni (From the Sea) Interlude [Plaxico/Haynes]
11. Equilibrium [Plaxico]
12. 2 Bass Interlude [Plaxico/Haynes]
13. Inner Voice [Plaxico/Hegarty/Lun]
14. Kalomo (The Unexpected) Interlude [Plaxico]
15. Matrix [Plaxico/Braden/Lewi]
16. Oji (The Gift Bearer) [Haynes]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.