Jeff Barash: Bouncin' on 160th Avenue

Bouncin' represents Barash's first release as a leader. He takes this opportunity to explore and develop some fine original compositions. The title track leads into "On a Misty Night," a sweet flowing tune with strong work from guitarist Mike Owen. Owen takes the lead on the next cut, "Nationalistic World," with a fiery guitar intro. A moment later, Jeff opens on soprano sax and everyone holds down a solid Latin-tinged groove. Chris Larson takes a funky bass solo while Dave Hitchings holds it all together using every piece in his drum kit. "Oasis" builds from a dreamy arrangement that emphasizes space and razor-sharp timing. Barash plays flute here while Hitchings brushes the tempo along in waltz time. This tune stands out as a high point on the record. "Why Am I Here?" allows everyone to stretch out, and again the drummer shines with a nice opening solo. A quirky turn into saxophone territory adds adventure and surprise to this piece.

The hour plus of sweet and driving jazz on Bouncin' establishes Jeff Barash as a leader whose time has finally come. It will be exciting to hear where he takes his music next.

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