Too Soon, Too Late

The bass is the perfect accompanying instrument, with its ability to provide an essential harmonic and rhythmic foundation. Whenever a bassist makes the courageous choice to lead an ensemble and “call the shots,” it presents an interesting opportunity to hear how they balance featuring themselves as a soloist while still providing creative and meaningful accompaniment and support.

Simon Osuna has done a beautiful job on his debut recording, striking that balance. He shows off his rich sound, impeccable technique, and sensitive musicality throughout —whether he’s playing an intro, walking, stating the melody, or soloing. Too Soon, Too Late is an exciting and important addition to the lineage of bass-led recordings.

Simon on drummer Willie Bowman: “Willie is an exceptional talent who, despite his young age, is already a true master of his instrument and one of the best drummers I’ve ever played with. I feel completely comfortable playing with him, yet he constantly keeps me on my toes and pushes me to play at my best.” That comfort, combined with the intensity that this music requires, is present in every measure.

Pianist Tommaso has been a close musical colleague of Simon’s for many years, and it shows in their musical rapport. Simon shares about him: “He’s a wonderful person and a virtuoso musician, but what I value most is his comping. I once recorded a lesson I had with bass legend Buster Williams, which Tommaso joined. I placed the recorder on the piano, so his playing came through very prominently. It wasn’t until I listened back that I fully realized the extent to which he adapts tomy playing, adding ideas and with an incredible touch and sensitivity.”

Saxophonist Grant Stewart has been an essential voice on the New York and international jazz scene for over 35 years. He has been a huge inspiration for jazz musicians all over the world, and Simon is no exception. A formative experience during Simon’s NYC residency was going every Monday night to Grant’s regular gig with pianist Richard Clemens at the 11th Street Bar. “Grant has always been very encouraging and welcoming,” Simon says. “He is not only an amazing musician but a great person to be around, and has played a big part in my development as a bassist.”

The final member of this musical aggregation is guitarist Joan Fort. Joan and Simon both hail from Catalonia, lived in Amsterdam, moved to New York City together, and have clocked many hours with one another on and off the bandstand. There is no shortcut for building the deep personal and musical relationship they have, and the beautiful music they make together is a consequence of that. Simon shares his thoughts about Joan and this undertaking: “Recording my first album as a leader came with challenges and doubts. Joan was always there to rehearse my compositions, offer ideas, and encouragement to keep going. I’m very grateful for his support and his beautiful playing.”

Simon explains the genesis of naming the album: “Too Soon, Too Late” was a phrase uttered by a dear friend and room mate while we were brushing our teeth one night. He explained tome that he had fallen in love with a girl, but they couldn’t be together because he was leaving the country soon. It is another expression describing the concept of "star crossed lovers”. Fortunately for us, the stars were aligned, and these five musicians came together to produce a fantastic recording.

—David Wong

Tracklist

Album details