Mean What You Say

Mean What You Say is an independent release and a thrilling musical collaboration (as well as bass-centric jazz recording masterpiece). In addition to Dave on bass, the quartet recording also features the considerable talents of first-call trumpet genius Kevin Turcotte, as well as gifted pianist Robi Botos and dynamic drummer Frank Botos.

Well-Produced by noted award-winning bassist, composer and producer Roberto Occhipinti, Mean What You Say is comprised of material from some of the most intriguing jazz composers of the modern musical era (e.g. title-track author Thad Jones, Oscar Pettiford, Sam Jones, W.C. Handy, Bud Powell, Cole Porter and Matt Dennis) as well as original pieces by Dave Young himself.

The eclectic, musically sophisticated and deeply swinging material on Mean What You Say includes the title track, written by legendary jazz trumpeter, arranger and bandleader Thad Jones (one third of the Pontiac, Michigan jazz dynasty that includes late drum legend Elvin and still swinging pianist Hank Jones). It’s only natural that Thad’s tune should be a feature for Kevin Turcotte’s agile and sumptuous sound while also including strong rhythmic work from Frank Botos and inspired solos from Robi Botos and Dave. “Will You Still Be Mine” comes from the late, prolific Sinatra inspired vocalist/composer Matt Dennis, and is arranged here as a jaunty, rhythmic swing with an impressive arco solo by Dave as well as more exquisite lead trumpet work from Turcotte and strong solo piano sections from Robi Botos. Innovative bass/cello genius Oscar Pettiford’s “Bohemia After Dark” is a bass-centric stand out, and one of the most appealing tracks on the CD. Of particular beauty are penultimate American tunesmith Cole Porter’s classic and moving ballads, “Every Time We Say Good-bye” and the sumptuous, more up-tempo “Dream Dancing” – both of which display the communicative sensitivity and superb musicianship of the entire quartet. Other highlights of Mean What You Say include “Celia”, by revered seminal bop pianist Bud Powell; Dave Young’s original compositions “Sandu” (which features a gorgeous pizzicato bass solo), “Minor 101” and the emotionally evocative “Last Time I Saw Her”. Also, avant-garde jazz bassist/composer Sam Jones’ progressively smooth bopper, “Seven Minds” and the gospel-tinged bass feature, “Morning Star” from jazz progenitor and rag-time king, W.C. Handy.