Aaron Binder: As Modern as Tomorrow

Despite its rather immodest title, drummer Aaron Binder’s second recording as leader is a fairly conventional straight–ahead trio date encompassing five of his compositions, two by bassist Fitzsimmons and one by drummer Hanley. The playing is thoroughly customary as well, with everyone striding confidently across familiar terrain but never venturing beyond it. Within those parameters, however, lies a good deal of pleasurable music, and Binder and his companions do their utmost to fashion a rewarding listening experience. This ain’t the Oscar Peterson Trio (or anything close), but it’s at least comparable to much that can be heard in out–of–the–way Jazz clubs from coast to coast. No one is less than competent, and the session as a whole swings nicely along in a mellow groove that nimbly sidesteps the move obvious potholes. Each member of the trio is an excellent writer, and all of the compositions are well above the norm. Recording quality is respectable, playing time a moderately brief 42:31. Nothing groundbreaking here, but nothing that is displeasing either.

Track listing: The Drama Queens; As Modern as Tomorrow; Solus Rex; Al’s Jowels; Souless Wreck; Soft as a Voice in Love; Up to the Minute; Scamp (42:31).