muzycy:
John Hagen (Tenor Saxophones), Denman Maroney (Piano), Mark Dresser (Bass), Shanir Blumenkranz (Bass), Gerry Hemingway (Drums), Todd Capp (Drums)

Editor's Info:
A professional musician since the early 1970s and a former student of a number of people, ranging from Jimmy Cheatham and Randy Sandke to Warne Marsh and Bill Dixon, it's surprising that this is Mr. Hagen's first release under his own leadership in 54 years. And in listening to the 15 little gems that make up this work, the surprises keep coming. This is a saxophonist who will draw in the listener with his emotive, logically constructed, and powerful statements. Fifteen cuts: a marvel in concise statements and, while unknown, not undeserving of your attention.

All About Jazz:
Segments begins well. John Hagen's tenor tone is rich and strong, his phrasing warm and soulful. Shanir Blumenkranz strums droning clusters of bass notes over drummer Todd Capp's free pulse. The piece rumbles and rolls along for ten pleasant minutes before gliding to a gentle finish. Track two introduces the second of several band configurations featured on the recording: pianist Denman Maroney, bassist Mark Dresser, and drummer Gerry Hemingway. On most of the pieces, snatches of Hagen's compositions, or "segments, can be heard as connective devices for improvised passages. Some pieces sound more thoroughly composed, the rhythm section floating freely over ephemerally coiling melodies and chords.

Lacking more information to supplement the meager statement given with the CD, it seems a fair guess that the music heard on Segments is roughly one part composition to three parts improvisation. This is a nice ratio, and Hagen and his sidemen artfully blend the two so that the boundaries between them are pleasantly blurred. The end effect is sophisticated, gently persuasive modern jazz—a little aimless-sounding sometimes, but also haunting, inviting repeated listens.

Hagen is the rare saxophonist leader who doesn't dominate the show. Even with a trio, where many in his shoes would feel obliged to grab the spotlight, Hagen .......
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