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What people said:
JazzReview.com -- review of "TWO"
The Austin Chronicle -- review of "TWO"-- January 26th, 2007
Austin Music Magazine
-- review of "TWO"-- Jan/Feb 2007 issue
Austin Monthly Magazine -- review of "TWO"-- Feb 2007 issue
"Daisy's Red Ryder BB Gunsots.
David Chenu Quintet, Two: The promising saxophonist avoids the
sophomore jinx with a lovely album. Superb phrasing. 9 shots."
Daisy Riprock, Austin Daze
"Saxophonist David Chenu on Two leads his quintet through nine
of his compositions, two free improvisations and a song by
guitarist Jacob Wise. The music is gentle, Chenu and Wise
display mellow tones on their instruments, and the results are
accessible while full of subtle inventions. Chenu, based
in Austin, Texas, is heard mostly on tenor, doubling on
baritone during the haunting tango piece “The Painting.” Most
of the other selections are also memorable in their own way,
being straightahead jazz that features strong melodies and
solos taken at a relaxed pace. The rhythm section (pianist
Evan Jacobs, bassist Beau Sample and drummer Jason Friedrich)
is quietly supportive and the five musicians all think along
similar paths, achieving an attractive group sound. Even the
two free
improvisations and the brief “I Know Why” (which hints
slightly at John Coltrane) are lyrical and relatively
peaceful. Two, which is preceded by David Chenu’s
recording debut (called One), is well worth acquiring and
available from www.davidchenu.com." Scott Yanow, LA Jazz
Scene
"David, Thank you and Jacob,
Jason, and Beau for the great job you did playing for Flat Creek
Estate on Sunday! Our guests really enjoyed themselves. We
certainly appreciated your talents and professionalism!"
Heidi Helle, Event Coordinator, Flat Creek Estate Vineyard &
Winery: December 5th, 2005
"Dear Friends, Thank you so
much for playing at Green Corn Project’s first annual spring
fundraiser, Growing Gourmet, in April. Many people remarked that
the music helped make the event. Everyone on the board agreed
that the music added an elegant touch to the brunch and made it
exactly what we had envisioned. Because of your help,
Growing Gourmet was a success. Not only were we able to raise
money for our organization, but we were also able to raise
awareness about our organization’s goal. We greatly
appreciate your support of the Green Corn Project!" Roger
Mitchell, President of Green Corn Project: May 26th, 2005
"I heard so many compliments
of your wonderful music! Thank you for adding to the
festivities."
-Margaret Perry, Director of Education and the Austin Lyric
Opera: March 5th, 2005
"David, We enjoyed the
experience and thank you for the professionalism exhibited while
playing and talking with both educators and students. Your
presence elevated our reputation in the eyes of those who were
able to hear you play. We will be in touch with you
concerning working together in the future.
Best regards." -Randy Huey, Director of
Marketing and Sales, Antigua Winds: February 14th, 2005
"Young local saxman David
Chenu is someone to keep your eye on. If his debut, One,
is any indication, he should have a bright future ahead. Most
noteworthy are his original compositions, which place him firmly
in a modernist mode with an occasional nod to the blues. Chenu
proves to be a solid player, well versed in this expressive
language. The duet gigs played by Chenu and guitarist Jacob Wise
bear fruit here in the compatible interplay that shines
throughout the date. With this fine debut, we should eagerly
anticipate chapter two." -Jay Trachtenberg, The Austin Chronicle:
April 23rd, 2004
"Dear David Chenu Jazz Quartet,
Thank you so much for coming to play for our students.
Students and teachers alike enjoyed the concert. Everyone
is still talking about it. We were impressed with
the way the members of your quartet answered students' questions
in ways that were appropriate for their grade level. It
was also so neat for them to hear each instrument by itself, and
then add them to the mix one at a time. This is something
no audio recording can do! It was apparent
that the quartet enjoyed introducing young students to live jazz
music. Your positive attitude was contagious. It
isn't often the case that professional musicians of your caliber
are so interested in sharing their talents with kids at school.
Also, your professionalism, punctuality, and good spirits made
your group a pleasure to work with. Your performance was
an exciting culmination to 'jazz week'. For kids who don't
regularly get to hear concerts, much less jazz concerts, it was
a huge treat. Next time your group returns, we will have
you play at a school wide assembly so everyone can enjoy your
wonderful music. Best wishes, Lindsey Ellison, K-3 Music
teacher, NYOS Charter School; Sean Haley, Principal, NYOS
Charter School"
"Chenu has a highly accomplished combo, and these tracks are
slower and sweeter than molasses. Genteel, restrained, and
smooth as smooth can be." -Audiogalaxy
"Thank you David! We enjoyed your music!" -Kelly Robinson,
Guaranty Bank, January 29th, 2004
"Dear David, Joe and I want to thank you so very much for
entertaining us so wonderfully at our 50th anniversary.
Everyone enjoyed you so much and you played all of the songs
we loved many years ago and even now." -Ann Williams, June
2003
"We just wanted to give you special thanks for a wonderful
performance on our Wedding Day. Along with our guests, we were
very pleased with your performance and your etiquette. All of
you did an excellent job. We are planning on having another
party and would love for you to participate in our next
upcoming event and also would recommend the David Chenu Band
to anyone who is looking for a jazz band." - Michael and Sindhu Breon, June 30th, 2002
"I enjoyed hearing you play on our show, and thanks for the CD
you brought in for us." -Charlie Martin, KO.OP Radio
"I did enjoy your concert a couple of weeks back. Your group
and compositions definitely had a fresh and cohesive sound.
Nice audience turnout, too!" -John Mills, University of Texas
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