Nick Bisesi: Gemini

Bisesi's crisp and fleshy tenor sound is delineated by some interesting arrangements and compositions. Bassist Patrick Williams and drummer Eric Montzka do a fine job of navigating mixed tempos and a variety of styles. Bisesi's creative soloing counterpart is Neal Alger, who delivers some snazzy and colorful guitar work that help keep this recording interesting.

The clarity of the music is strengthened by writing that gives each musician the space to make use of their abilities. A good example is heard on "The Garden where the opening notes give way to a bass solo that leads into an Indian modal groove with each instrument, adding life to the hypnotic flow.

The compositions show the musical path that the saxophonist is traveling, stating "This music represents who I am, where I've been, and where I'm going." This is translated on the soft ballad "A Short Visit," the odd-metered funk groove of "Gorilla Cookies," and the jumping ska riff of "Secret Agent of Change —all of which are thoroughly engaging and highly listenable.

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