"School Work" is a captivating jazz album released in 1993 by the legendary Dewey Redman, featuring a stellar lineup of musicians including Ethan Iverson, Joshua Redman, Charles Eubanks, Anthony Cox, and Carl Allen. This album is a testament to the enduring power of free jazz and avant-garde influences, with a runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes across 10 tracks. Dewey Redman showcases his mastery on tenor, alto sax, and musette, delivering a performance that is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.
The album opens with "Dewey Eyed, Dewey Played," a dynamic duet between Dewey Redman and Ethan Iverson, setting the stage for the creative explorations that follow. Tracks like "Red Wing" and "Stella by Starlight" highlight Redman's ability to blend classic jazz standards with his unique avant-garde sensibilities. "I Got It Bad" and "Wisconsin Primitiv" showcase the album's free jazz roots, with intricate improvisations and a sense of spontaneity that keeps the listener engaged.
Ethan Iverson, then a rising star, contributes significantly to the album, demonstrating his talent and complementing Redman's seasoned artistry. The title "School Work" is a nod to Ornette Coleman, reflecting the album's deep connection to the avant-garde jazz tradition. Recorded in 1993 and released by Mons Records, this album is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast, offering a rich tapestry of sound and a profound exploration of the genre's boundaries.