Jordan Young Group: Jordan Young Group

On their self-titled debut. New York-based Jordan Young and his group go through a mix of different sounds, from a straight-ahead Hammond-based version of Cole Porter's "Every Time We Say Goodbye" to the more experimental "PinGs"—four short interludes spread throughout the disc that hint at the band's desire to tackle contemporary material while still keeping their admitted 1960s organ trio vibe.

The musicians demonstrate great synchronicity. On "Claudes Monet," guitarist Yotam Silberstein and saxophonist Joe Sucato trade several licks before Silberstein contributes an individual solo. The guitarist's subtle technique is reminiscent of Joe Pass, who also had the ability to stand out without overshadowing the other musicians in a band. The bandleader himself is not showy, preferring to keep his drumming within the rhythm section, adding a few accents here and there without dominating the sound.

"Afro-Centric" has a dubious title. While the group might have been expected to explore African or Afro-Cuban sounds, what's heard, instead, is the influence of early funk, especially in the rhythm section. That isn't exactly a disappointment, as the tune serves as a great showcase for Sucato and Silberstein, who present great individual moments. Organist Brian Charette keeps a solid backbeat with Young, allowing the two soloists to exercise their creativity. "Jf Blues" sounds like a jam made on the spot; even what seems as a minor mistake is heard in the opening chords, but that just enhances the spontaneity of the moment.

Another memorable track is the group's take on Guy Wood/Robert Mellin's classic "My One And Only Love," popularized by John Coltrane. This group's arrangement, however, seems more inspired by Sting's cover, from the soundtrack to the 1995 film Leaving Las Vegas, and is one of the few tracks featuring a solo from Charette, who shares the spotlight with Silberstein.

The Jordan Young Group doesn't make the mistake of trying to sound too eclectic, sticking to what it knows, instead, and excelling at it. They are all great musicians, without attempting to outshine each other, making this group one worth paying attention to.