John Surman: Brewster's Rooster

Over 150 years experience! That's how the band saxophonist John Surman assembled for Brewster's Rooster could be advertised. Surman first played with drummer Jack DeJohnette in the late '70s and DeJohnette and guitarist John Abercrombie first worked together earlier that decade. Rounded out by bassist Drew Gress, Surman revisits straight-ahead jazz after essaying an eclectic range of recordings. On "Hilltop Dancer," Surman's tone on baritoneis solid and assured, never tempted by the extremes available on the big horn and Abercrombie's subtle ability to match notes is remarkable. Alternating between pretty melodies rendered on soprano and harder driving baritone burners, Surman's good taste and confidence reveal themselves. Like a less cagey Ben Webster, Surman's sound is brawny and heartfelt, never more so on "Chelsea Bridge," giving the old warhorse fresh life in an absolutely compelling performance.

What is exciting and engaging on CD, however, really took off on the third night of the group's stay at New York City's Birdland in August, 2009. Opening with an unaccompanied solo on baritone, Surman and the band swiftly launched into "Hilltop Dancer," with Abercrombie staying with the leader on every step of the melodic line. DeJohnette propelled readings of "Kickback" and "Haywain" as Surman wrestled his solos to the ground with fast fingerings and circular breaths, while even soprano ballads like "Slanted Sky" featured pugilistic middle sections. Even these grizzled veteran musicians had to smile at their own creativity.