Tray Wellington’s evolving musical journey is on full display in his latest album, Detour to the Moon. Following the innovative spirit of his 2022 debut, Black Banjo, Wellington continues to push boundaries, blending bluegrass and jazz in inventive ways. This new release showcases his skillful integration of thematic elements and diverse genres, resulting in a dynamic collection of instrumental and vocal tracks.
The album opens with the cinematic “Moon in Motion 1,” where Nick Weitzenfeld’s delicate guitar picking sets the stage for Wellington’s vibrant banjo. As the song progresses, Josiah Nelson’s fiddle joins in, creating a lively dialogue with the banjo and leading to an expansive bridge that invites exploration. This thematic motif seamlessly transitions into “Blue Collared Dog and His Green Eyed Friend,” a track that merges old-time, bluegrass, and jazz influences, with the fiddle steering the melody and the banjo and guitar providing intricate layers.
Wellington’s versatility shines in his rendition of John Hiatt’s “Lift Up Every Stone,” where Wendy Hickman’s ethereal vocals and DeShawn Hickman’s pedal steel guitar enhance the song’s haunting quality. Another standout is Wellington’s take on Duke Ellington’s “Caravan,” where bluegrass foundations meet jazz improvisation, featuring Drew Matulich’s Django Reinhardt-inspired guitar work. Additionally, the soulful duet with Kaia Kater on “Till Summer Was Gone” recalls the folk-jazz blend of Jesse Colin Young’s classics, while “Spiral Staircase” offers a swirling jazz experience with instruments weaving in and out.
Detour to the Moon is a captivating album that highlights Wellington’s ability to craft multifaceted music. Each track offers its own unique charm, making the album a rich and rewarding listen. – Jason Felton