Drummer/composer Bobby Previte’s second outing for this jazz record label was recorded live in the studio. Here, the drummer’s forceful leadership shines radiantly, as he often shouts audibles to his band-mates, amid a rhythmically charged sequence of works. Previte provides the chutzpah via a power-packed melding of peppery, funk/jazz and rock grooves. Essentially, this is an all-star lineup of modern jazz cats. During many of these pieces, saxophonist Marty Ehrlich and trombonist Curtis Fowlkes blow steamy and altogether punctual choruses atop the rhythm section’s upfront attack. They implement counterpoint and pumping lines throughout many of these works that often share some compositional similarities. On the flip side, this recording might not be Previte’s crown jewel, especially when we consider his impressive discography and legacy. However, with this release, the live dynamic is highlighted in pronounced fashion! On Previte’s composition titled “And The Wind Cries…Mademoisselle Katherine,” pianist Wayne Horvitz trims off the edge, due to his sonorously executed harmonics. Fowlkes and Ehrlich move forward with the scorching attributes of a blast furnace, while Previte and bass great, Steve Swallow provide a firm yet at times, vociferous undercurrent. Recommended.

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Bobby Previte