David Murray: Like A Kiss That Never Ends

Murray's Power Quartet on Like A Kiss includes some of his freshest and most versatile collaborators. Their shared experience translates into natural cohesion and collective momentum. Pianist John Hicks settles into tasteful straight-ahead comping just as naturally as he leaps into electric solos or gentle lyricism. Ray Drummond, also a long-term Murray collaborator, has an unusually warm tone—and a special talent at holding down the low end without relying on cliche or pattern playing. (The sonics of this recording capture the depth and detail of his playing unusually well.) Drummer Andrew Cyrille, who's been all over the musical map through his career, generally supplies understated swing and propulsive polyrhythm.

The tunes on Like A Kiss, mostly Murray originals, cover the range from upbeat hard bop to understated funk to vibrant Latin passion to maple syrup ballads. Without seeming restless or jumpy, Murray's Power Quartet tackles a variety of approaches. Overall the disc resonates with subtlety and sophistication, a welcome contrast to Murray's often extroverted, bulging approach.

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