“Night Song” by Max Wagner – June CD of the Month

The Front Range of Colorado is fortunate to have one of the most talented and diverse communities of musicians in the US. Moreover, musicians from other areas of the country comment on the comradery of our musicians, a not so common occurrence. Our June CD of the Month is by a very esteemed and versatile member of our family of musicians, Max Wagner. His fourth release as a leader is the self-produced Night Song, Max’s first all alto saxophone outing. Wagner is joined by the accomplished accompanists Eric Gunnison-piano, Ken Walker-bass and Todd Reid-drums. Of the six selections on the album, five are revitalized covers and to close it out Mr. Wagner composed a tribute to his hometown jazz station KUVO Jazz, Welton After Dark.

Max maintains a busy schedule playing around Metro Denver and Estes Park with his own group and sitting in with other ensembles. Moreover, he works at the Kolacny Music store in Denver and is also the music director and principle organizer of the annual Estes Park Jazz and Art Walk, for “Max the Sax”, it seems to be all music, all the time! On stage Wagner has an engaging personality with his superb saxophone playing, captivating scatting and humorous personality that features an expansive vocabulary with a knack for making funny puns which only enhances the feel-good experience of catching Max live on stage leading his group. His wife Karen works with horses so it’s only fitting that their music label is Appaloosa Jazz Records. When you listen to this recording it will be as pleasant as riding your favorite horse through some beautiful mountain pastures with the breeze blowing your hair back, a ride you’ll want to take over and over.

Click HERE to become a CD of the Month member and you’ll receive 13 CDs during your yearly membership.