By Glenn Astarita
Ten Compositions (Quartet) 2000 by Anthony Braxton (CIMP)
Spearheaded by the great saxophonist/composerÃÂs often buzz saw attack whether performing on alto sax or flute, this powerhouse ensemble compliements BraxtonÃÂs melodically swinging and springy grooves with grace, flair and ominous intentions. Although many of the musiciansÃÂ fervent exchanges are firmly rooted within the modern jazz vernacular, these Braxton works also signify his comfort zone performing and composing from within traditional concepts and ideologies. This production also offers jazz aficionados an opportunity to hear electric guitar wunderkind Kevin OÃÂNeil, as the venerable drummer Kevin Norton and rock solid bassist Andy Eulau round out this top flight and highly anticipated effort.
Live At The Dakotaby Von Freeman (Premonition Records)
The latest from Chicago, Illinois-based tenor sax legend Von Freeman and his quartet. - Freeman, pianist Bobby Peterson, bassist Terry Burns and drummer Phil Hey tackle the Ellington-Strayhorn songbook, Wayne ShorterÃÂs ÃÂFootprintsÃÂ, ÃÂBye Bye BlackbirdÃÂ and others for a truly spirited set. Freeman possesses a robust tone, abetted by his fluid, sinewy lines and a cookinÃÂ band. No frills, no hidden agendas here, just energetic and affably engaging modern jazz, enhanced by a few sprightly twists and turns along the way!
HeliosSuite by the Crossover Ensemble (Dacapo Records)
The Denmark-based octet known as the ÃÂCrossover EnsembleÃÂ represents some of this countryÃÂs finest modern jazz artists/visionaries. The ensemble also utilizes the services of ÃÂThe Zapolski (strings) QuartetÃÂ as the musiciansÃÂ pay homage to the ÃÂlight and energy of the sunÃÂ. With this release, the two factions perform in harmonious accord via sonorous yet probing story lines amid traces of familiar classicism, jazzy interplay and complimentary arrangements.
In The Ear Of The Beholder by Jorge Sylvester Afro-Caribbean Experimental Trio (Jazz Magnet)
The bandÃÂs moniker says it all! Saxophonist/percussionist Jorge Sylvester, bassist Donald Nick and drummer Bobby Sanabria pursue novel ways to have some fun with clave and more! Simply put, the musicians meld modern jazz-style improvisation with Latin rhythms, protean interplay and stimulating dialogue.
