The following are reviews written about my performances:
Reviews
Gary Keller, University of Miami/Miami Sax Quartet
"Alan Durst and Corey Whitehead have put together a splendid collection of saxophone and guitar music. The variety of compositions, all masterly performed, captures many moods, from serene sensitivity to gregarious excitement. This recording amply demonstrates the potential of the saxophone guitar duo, and reminds us of the possibilities for the saxophone in virtually any chamber setting. Alan Durst's tone, control, and nuance provide further evidence that the saxophone is the closest instrument to the human voice, and can be a modern substitute in one of music's oldest combinations. " Gary Lindsay, Grammy Nominated Composer/Arranger
"The Mediterranean Beauty is a standout on this heartfelt CD. You have a great feel for Piazzolla's "Histore du Tango" Beautiful sound, rhythmic finesse and energy! Bravo, equally impressive is your guitarist Corey, masterful playing with a clear clean sound and effective vibrato, just great."
Hope Munro Smith, KFSR 90.7 FM, Fresno
"Tangos y Serenatas is one of my favorite CDs so far this year. Featuring a diverse blend of styles from different contemporary composers, this CD will suit a number of radio formats. Although classical saxophone and guitar are not a common combination, the playing of Durst and Whitehead complement each other very well. The most familiar piece will be Astor Piazzolla's Histoire du Tango. Originally written for flute and guitar, Durst astounds with his technically brilliant yet emotional performance on soprano saxophone. My other favorites on this disc are L.A. Tango Nuevo by Adrienne Albert particularly nice for world music radio formats and Joropo Jam by Benjamin Boone. Overall, the CD is truly a standout for its diversity and the talented playing of Alan Durst and Corey Whitehead."
Martin Perlich, KCSN-FM/ 88.5 Los Angeles
"A seriously wonderful disc; excellent choice of music - including great new works by Carlson, Albert and others -as well as a thoroughly idiomatic and passionately rendered "Histoire du tango". And the playing is an unalloyed delight!"
