Larry Gray:
1, 2, 3 ...
Intelligent, ultra-sensitive musicmaking from one of Chicago's pre-eminent bassists. If guitarist John Moulder does much of the heavy lifting here, there's no questioning the deft interactions among him, bassist Gray and drummer Charles Heath.
Steven Hashimoto's Mothra:
Tradewind.
For a band that's been around for a few decades, Hashimoto's Mothra sounds remarkably fresh. The work of newer recruits, such as guitarist Neal Alger, and the luster of the arrangements explain why.
Marshall Vente Trio:
Marshall Arts.
Though an excellent pianist, composer and bandleader, Vente's trio work here proves surprisingly tame.
Paulinho Garcia:
My Very Life.
Singer-guitarist Garcia always caresses the ear, but this disc offers an impressive collection of original compositions steeped in Brazilian musical culture. Each is a revelation.
Tony do Rosario's New Chicago Jazz Quartet:
New Beginnings.
Do Rosario shows promise, but the guitarist's tunes border on the mundane.
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