James Hale (DownBeat magazine and SoundStageXperience.com):

Welcome to a New World

Guitarist Alex Moxon has been a familiar face on the Ottawa jazz scene for more than a decade, during which time he’s been refining his voice as an improviser and composer. His debut record, Alex Moxon Quartet, showcases his unique point of view as a player, composer, and bandleader.

Written and recorded during the nine months prior to the birth of Alex’s son, Fraser, the album’s theme is birth, and rebirth: not just the birth of a new family member, but also Alex’s evolution from sideman to leader. The music is imbued with a sense of urgency and excitement for this upcoming chapter in his life. For example, the opening track, Woody Shaw’s “In A Capricornian Way,” was selected as much for its inherent musical qualities and respect for its composer as it was for the knowledge that Fraser's due date was December 22 (which would render him, of course, a Capricorn). Another example, “Piety in Crescent Park,” conceived after an afternoon spent in New Orleans’ Crescent Park, evokes a sense of wonder and optimism for the future that can be felt even amidst the uncertainty of the Covidian Era. 

Moxon is supported on the record by comrades and Ottawa natives Steve Boudreau, piano, John Geggie, bass, and Michel Delage, drums. Together, they have the sort of chemistry that can only be earned from a history of playing together, as over the years they have all worked together both collectively and in split configurations.

Overall, Alex Moxon Quartet delivers an experience that uplifts and excites listeners as it leads them along a path of varying emotional landscapes that mirror the complexities of the world we find ourselves in. Let it be an antidote for gloom and despair, and a reminder that the future will be a wonderful place.

Personnel

Alex Moxon - Guitar / Compositions
Steve Boudreau - Piano
John Geggie - Bass
Michel Delage - Drums

1. In a Capricornian Way
2. Kaleidoscope
3. Mining for Gold
4. Piety in Crescent Park
5. Wood Chop
6. Melodramatic Minors
7. Black Hole Sun
8. Scientology
9. Romantique

All compositions by Alex Moxon except for In a Capricornian Way (written by Woody Shaw) and Black Hole Sun (written by Chris Cornell)

Recorded/mixed by Normand Glaude at Morning Anthem Recording Studio
Mastered by Philip Shaw Bova at Bova Lab Studio Album
Cover photographed by Davd Irvine
Album artwork by Natasha Kzryzewski
Album design by Alex Moxon and Marilee Townsend-Alcorn

In a Capricornian Way dedicated to Fraser Turofsky Moxon, born December 28th, 2018

Made in Canada 2020