Mike Clark: Itai Doshin

Itai Doshin is a Buddhist term that, translated from Japanese, refers to a state of harmony wherein individuals share a common goal and purpose, or "many in body, one in mind." That is the level California-based drum legend Mike Clark's quintet strives for on Clark's second album on Gregory Howe's Wide Hive label.

Is the mission accomplished? That is for the listener to decide. What can be said is that everyone gives it his (or her) best shot, making Itai Doshin a generally pleasing session whose broad diversity and ardent blowing are enhanced by a trio of splendid charts by drummer Towner Galaher.

Clark's supporting cast is superb, with trumpeter Eddie Henderson and tenor saxophonist Craig Handy sharing the front line while pianist Patrice Rushen and bassist Henry Franklin round out the ensemble's sturdy rhythm section. The choice of material is a step or so below that, beginning and ending with disparate versions of Thelonious Monk's eccentric "Epistrophy" and embracing half a dozen original compositions—including one each by Clark and Franklin—to accompany the lone standard, Ray Noble's "Cherokee."

Speaking of "Cherokee," it is rather surprising to hear that classic flag-waver played as a ballad, but such is the case here, complete with tender solos by Henderson, Franklin and Rushen. Henderson's "Mganga" is a flat-out burner, whereas "Inside Zone," "I Shot the Sheriff" and Franklin's "Midori" follow more moderate paths. The leader wrote "Savant Clark" as a drum showcase, in which he pulls out all the stops to demonstrate his mastery of the drum kit. Rushen plays Fender Rhodes on "I Shot the Sheriff," and her solo there is impactful, as are Henderson and Handy's unison passages.

In sum, a better-than-average small-group session whose master plan and musicianship are decisive.