Immigration Nation

IMMIGRATION NATION [OA2 Records 22177] is CHARLIE PORTER's compelling work dedicated to immigrants. The work is divided into two sections — Leaving Home and New Beginnings. Each part is comprised of six pieces [78:52]. It reminds me of Freddie Hubbard's "Song of Songmy" [1970], but performed with a smaller ensemble. Hubbard employed a large group whereas Porter relies on five players — Nick Biello [ts], Oscar Perez [p], David Wong [b], Kenneth Salters [drm] and Sabine Kabongo [voc]. It's more than an hour of listening pleasure with a nice blend from the front line, solid solos and well rehearsed ensemble sections. This is a major work that
is worthy of funding for a concert tour.