Album of the Week – Alvin Queen Trio, “Feeling Good”

An Album Review by Michael Valentine | 88 Jazz Place – Afternoon Drive

When you think of jazz drumming legends, Alvin Queen is a name that resonates deeply within the jazz community. His latest album, Feeling Good (2024), released on Stunt Records, is a testament to his enduring talent and passion for the art of jazz.

Feeling Good is a masterclass in trio dynamics, blending Queen’s impeccable timing with a sense of joy that is palpable in every track. The album opens with the title track, a rendition of the classic Feeling Good, but with a fresh, vibrant energy that only Alvin Queen can deliver. His drum work is not just supportive but tells its own story, interweaving with the piano and bass to create a rich tapestry of sound.

Throughout the album, Queen’s drumming is as much about what he doesn’t play as what he does. The spaces he leaves in the music are as important as the beats themselves, creating a sense of tension and release that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. His use of dynamics is particularly striking; in tracks like Autumn Leaves, the shifts from subtle brushwork to full-bodied swing are seamless and thrilling.

One standout track is Blues for Coltrane, where Queen’s drums dance around the melody, accentuating the bluesy feel with precision and soul. The interplay between Queen and his bandmates is nothing short of magical, each musician giving the other space to shine while maintaining a cohesive group sound.

The album closes with Night Train, a fast-paced, hard-swinging number that showcases Queen’s technical prowess and his ability to drive the band with an infectious groove. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to hit repeat as soon as it’s over.

Feeling Good is more than just an album title; it’s a declaration. Alvin Queen is feeling good, and it’s impossible not to feel the same when listening to this joyous celebration of jazz. This is a must-have for any jazz lover’s collection, and a fitting addition to the discography of a true jazz master.

Stream it now and elevate your jazz experience with Feeling Good—available on all major platforms.

Join the Conversation

Join us this week on WDNA as we delve into “Feeling Good,” our Album of the Week, and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Alvin Queen to the world of jazz. Connect with us on social media and let us know which track resonated with you the most.

#FeelingGood #AlvinQueen #Jazz #MichaelValentine #88JazzPlace #WDNA

Explore More

To delve further into the world of Alvin Queen, visit his Home page where you can purchase the album and discover more about this incredible artist. Congratulations to Alvin Queen and his trio for crafting such a remarkable album. I look forward to hearing more from them in the future.

Stay tuned for more album reviews and updates from WDNA, your home for serious jazz.

By Michael Valentine, 88 Jazz Place at WDNA – Your trusted voice in the jazz community.

For those seeking a vibrant, innovative jazz experience, Feeling Good is essential listening.

1. Carlton Holmes – piano, synthesizer
2. Danton Boller – bass
3. Alvin Queen – drums