Irvin Mayfield
How Passion Falls
(Basin Street – 2001)
by Dick Bogle
This could well be titled “A Suite For Lovers” or ” A Lover’s Suite,” as trumpeter Irvin Mayfield, 22, frames historic love pairs with jazz-filled recognition. Adam and Eve are first to come in focus on a two-part memorium, “The Illusion” and “Adam And Eve.” Mayfield and saxophonist Aaron Fletcher generate a high temperature which signifies the initial positive reaction between male and female. Later, the horns clash discordantly, and we all know what that means.
The third track is “Obsession,” which ties to the fourth cut, “Othello And Desdemona.” The horns get into a call and response with the rhythm section. Casting aside the stories of the star-crossed lovers is important, otherwise the superb musicianship of Mayfield and his colleagues gets lost. He is in firm command of his horn, always knowing exactly where he is headed whether it’s on the bluesy “The Affair” or the final selection, the gorgeous ballad titled “The Reality.” His rhythm section uses drummer Jaz Sawyer, pianist Richard Johnson and bassist Edwin Livingston. Special guests include Ellis Marsalis, Donald Harrison and Delfeayo Marsalis.