Peter Daniel’s debut solo album ‘Quartets’ is a triumphant unveiling of a long-time sideman’s true voice, one that grooves, glows, and gives back to the musical community that shaped it. Best known for his work alongside giants like Lauryn Hill, Father John Misty, and ODESZA, the Seattle-based saxophonist now emerges from the wings with a deeply personal and richly textured record.
As the title suggests, ‘Quartets’ revolves around Daniel’s collaboration with a rotating cast of all-star rhythm sections from the Pacific Northwest. Rather than opting for a fixed lineup, he allows the essence of each quartet to shape the soundscape of individual tracks. The result is a dynamic, ever-shifting collection that spans everything from soul-drenched ballads to tightly wound funk-driven jams. Lead single ‘Miles Around’ hinted at what was to come, but the full record delivers far more than expected.
Opener ‘Take A Little Chance’ kicks things off with optimism and swagger, while ‘Desperate Waltz’ dips into introspective territory without losing its rhythmic spine. ‘Come Back Together’ and its reprise offer one of the album’s most compelling moments; cinematic, warm, and just the right amount of melancholy. Daniel’s saxophone work remains the emotional through-line, whether he’s locking into a deep pocket or soaring above it.
What makes ‘Quartets’ especially rewarding is its sense of rootedness. Recorded at Blue Mallard and released via Music Factory Records, an artist-led label Daniel himself contributes to, it’s as much a community project as it is a personal milestone. With vinyl on the way and live shows lined up across Washington State, this is a true celebration of a scene.
If you’re into the spiritual energy of Kamasi Washington or the groove-forward finesse of Roy Hargrove, Peter Daniel’s ‘Quartets’ deserves your full, undivided attention. It’s a love letter to collaboration, a bold first step as a leader, and a record that wears its joy and sincerity on its sleeve.
