Bright, soulful, swinging, heartfelt, romantic. These words might come to mind on Dutch saxophonist Floriaan Wempe’s second album that has been a long time in the making. Years of being a sideman and his apprenticeship with the likes of Roy Hargrove and Philip Harper have provided him with experience, skill and inspiration to step forth as a leader again.
‘The Light Of Day’ marks a new chapter where many ideas and developments behind the scenes finally see the light of day: leading a new band, writing lyrics, his debut on alto and his growth as a composer. At the same time it serves notice of things to come and directions to explore.

In this first meeting between up and coming musicians in The Netherlands and two seasoned masters, there is a spontaneity and freshness throughout the album. Instantly locked through their shared language, all musicians are team players, making the music and each other flourish. On three tracks Dutch vocal star Fay Claassen makes a guest appearance.

The nine originals leavy plenty room for interplay and individual expression and make for a varied set. Each song reflects an experience or feeling, sometimes personal, sometimes universal and for the first time with words. ‘Angel Roy’ recounts the live impact of the late trumpeter’s playing and the legacy he left behind. On ‘What To Do?’ the extended saxophone solo expands on the haunting question and the different lengths of ‘Acquiescence’ and ‘The Glow Of Promise’ amplify their respective moods. The arrangements enhance momentum changes, from compact forms to what feels like a live setting, to keep the listener captivated.
On his composing inspirations and aspirations Wempe says:

“I try to write melodic songs that tell a story and that are inviting to be creative. A big aspect of jazz to me is to interpret familiar or relatable songs, whether it be popular or musical songs or Thelonious Monk or Cedar Walton songs. My writing has become less specific and more about the essence of a natural melody and space to interpret. With the original songs on this album we were able to come together for the first time, play them through and record straight away. If some of them will linger in the listener’s ear and invite other musicians to play them and have fun, just like we did, it would be my biggest thrill.”

‘The Light Of Day’ shows the player and songwriter that he is and is becoming. It documents his coming of age and in all its diversity it holds a promise that more ideas are bubbling, waiting for their light of day.                                                  

1. The Observer (05.47)
2. Acquiescence (03.23)
3. Quest (05.22)
4. Angel Roy (03.30)
5. Love Me (05.16)
6. October 10 (05.28)
7. What To Do? (06.46)
8. The Glow Of Promise (06.55)
9. Gonna Be Alright (04.38)
10. What To Do? (alt take) (05.38)

Total playing time 52.43

All songs composed by F. Wempe