P.J. Perry: Time Flies

Alto saxophonist P.J. Perry drives with the spirit of Charlie Parker on both up-tempo romps and sensual ballads. His interpretations of "Tenderly" and "Warm Valley" come with heartfelt charm, while most of the album blazes fast and furious in a driving mode. Perry and Bobby Shew move light and quick, forming a cohesive session that allows them both to shine individually as well as collectively. The quintet romps with driving energy and the arrangements provide room for everyone to solo.

But it's the alto saxophone voice of P.J. Perry and the clarion trumpet calls of Bobby Shew that reach the farthest. Perry's fluid attack and confident delivery push without ever letting up. Like Bird and Diz, he and Shew push hard and drive with technical virtuosity. Bud Powell's "Tempus Fugit" features both in caricatures of foot-stompin' bebop. Gigi Gryce's "Social Call" takes them on a swinging tour of yesterday's animated antics.

While Time Flies calls up a retrospective look at tradition without approaching the progressive spirit of modern jazz, Perry's quintet gives its audience a stellar interpretation that we can appreciate for its honesty and accuracy.

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