Cinematic Giants Review: Peter Daniel – Quartets

Peter Daniel steps into the spotlight with his debut solo album, Quartets, and it’s packed with everything that’s made him one of the Pacific Northwest’s go-to collaborators for years. Known for his saxophone work with acts like ODESZA and The True Loves, Daniel now brings his own compositions to life, backed by rotating rhythm sections made up of some of Seattle’s most seasoned players.

The idea behind Quartets is simple but sharp: every track features a different rhythm section, letting Daniel explore a wide range of sounds while keeping the core format tight. It’s not about genre-hopping or showing off; it’s about putting trust in the players and letting the music move.

Opener “Take A Little Chance” sets the tone with a playful edge, giving room for funk-infused rhythms that never lose grip. “Desperate Waltz” is a standout for how much mood it builds in just a few minutes. It’s not flashy, but it’s got a pulse that sticks.

Then comes “Grant. Me. This.” which feels like it was built around a late-night groove. It’s warm and has that lived-in feel that only comes from years of shared stage time. “Come Back Together” and its reprise could easily slide into a film score, with their steady, cinematic pacing and close attention to dynamics.

Tracks like “Cliff’s Notes vol 3” and “Pedro Azul” show off Daniel’s more melodic side, with phrasing that leans closer to storytelling than improvisation. The tone stays grounded in funk and soul, but the jazz influence never disappears. “Ace High” and “I Won’t Live Forever” both move with quiet confidence—they don’t need to announce themselves.

Closing track “So Exciting” lives up to its title. It’s tighter than some of the looser cuts but doesn’t feel out of place. The album works because Daniel knows what to leave in and what to let go of. Nothing’s overcooked, nothing’s overexplained.

Quartets isn’t trying to make a grand statement. It’s a well-built, deeply musical project from someone who clearly knows his scene and his sound. It gives space to groove, to play, and to listen. For fans of Roy Hargrove’s RH Factor or Maceo Parker’s mid-tempo funk, this one will hit home.