Premiere: Hear a Cut from Remy Le Boeuf’s Upcoming Leader Debut, ‘Light As A Word’

News, First Listen, Remy Le Boeuf, Walter Smith III, Matt Brewer, Aaron Parks, Le Boeuf Brothers

By DownBeat I Apr. 12, 2019

Saxophonist Remy Le Boeuf (center), who also performs in The Le Boeuf Brothers with his twin Pascal, is set to issue his leader debut, *Light As A Word*, on May 24.
(Photo: Shervin Lainez)

Remy Le Boeuf is wholly ensconced in a singular sonic world on Light As A Word, the alto saxophonist’s leader debut due out May 24 on Outside In.

Oscillating between originals flecked with the electricity of Charles Altura’s guitar and bolstered by tenorist Walter Smith III on the frontline, Le Boeuf seems steadfast in his belief in the ensemble collected here.

“My musical values are built around communication,” the bandleader said in a press release. “I value conversation, interaction, intimacy, authenticity and the ability to capture emotion. I chose this band specifically because they help me achieve that.”

On “Full Circle”—the album’s second cut, which is debuting here—Aaron Parks’ lilting piano tips in to open the tune before Le Boeuf and Smith calmly wend their way through a few knotty bars and into the leader’s solo feature. It’s one of the album’s resolutely peaceful moments, but a tune easily balanced by some of the more lively takes, like “Mirrors In Your Eyes” a few tracks on.

Le Boeuf’s currently on the road, and more information about Light As A Word is available on his Bandcamp page. DB