The Pete BarenBregge-Frank Russo Quartet: PF Flyer (2002)

By

CRAIG W. HURST,

Craig W. Hurst

- Since 2001

Professor of Music, University of Wisconsin - Waukehsa, trumpet player, and music lover.

43 articles published | Recent:

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Published: February 1, 2002

The CD PF Flyer recorded by the Washington D.C. based Pete BarenBregge - Frank Russo Quartet is a delightfully crafted album with a capital D.C. Adding this recording to your collection won’t disappoint you. The playing on the album represents top notch performing and well-honed musicianship. The 55 minutes and 8 seconds of music on the recording is comprised of four originals by the quartet’s pianist Fred Hughes, one original by co-leader BarenBregge and includes standards by Cole Porter and Chick Corea.

Although BarenBregge is the fronting horn man of the group, playing tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone and flute, the other members of the quartet also demonstrate very competent chops. The listener will be drawn to BarenBregge’s throaty tenor, birdlike soprano, and effervescent flute sound. The bass work, alternately handled by Tom Cecil and Steve Zerlin demonstrates light-as-a-feather buoyancy that makes the swinging groove of the quartet sound effortlessly easy. Throughout the recording is the pervasive drive of Frank Russo’s drumming that establishes a consistent rhythmic foundation. Pianist Fred Hughes provides full harmonic support and inventive melodic ideas, not only in his own improvisational flights of fancy, but in his original compositions for the quartet as well.

Beyond any shadow of a doubt PF Flyer would be a welcome addition to any jazz listener’s collection. The recording will appeal to listeners on many levels. For the casual jazz listener, there are pleasing and swinging sounds. For the more dedicated dyed in the wool aficionado, the recording provides many moments of profound musical depth. Congratulations to the Pete BarenBregge – Frank Russo Quartet for creating more great sounds for those of us who love jazz.

Track Listing: You Stepped Out Of A Dream, PF Flyer, Day Dreaming, I Love You, Song For TH, Out Of The Blue, What's New, The Summer Rain, Tones For Joan's Bones

Personnel: Pete BarrenBregge, Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute; Frank Russo, Drums; Fred Hughes, Piano; Tom Cecil, Bass; Steve Zerlin, Bass