Bobby Broom: Notes of Thanks

Guitarist Bobby Broom is no stranger to the music of tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins, having spent two tours of duty with various Rollins groups which, taken together, add up to a decade (1982-'87 and 2005-'10). Notes of Thanks is Broom's way of expressing his gratitude to Rollins for those years in the trenches and the many valuable lessons he learned there, the best way he knows how: through his music.

Rollins wrote every song on Notes of Thanks save one, bassist Dennis Carroll's easygoing "Me Time." The third member of Broom's Chicago-based trio is drummer Kobie Watkins. Even though Broom is among the best at what he does, and his teammates are likewise sharp and skillful, there is only so much a trio can do to engender variety, no matter how perceptive and charming the music.

With that in mind, it should be noted that there are not many guitar-led trios as proficient as this one, and that Rollins' tunes are for the most part astute and engaging, starting with the good-natured "Alfie's Theme" (not to be confused with the "Alfie" written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David for the 1966 film of that name), on which Broom delivers the first of his sharp and measured solos, enhanced by a brief nod to Joshua and the battle of Jericho.

"The Freedom Suite, Part 1" is next, followed by one of Rollins' more well-known tunes, the amiable and rhythmic "Doxy." Carroll takes one of his admirable solos there, while Watkins displays his deftness at the drum kit. It is not until later—the last two numbers, in fact—that Broom and his mates delve into any other Rollins classics, namely the high-stepping "Pent Up House" and canorous "Valse Hot." They are preceded by the lesser-known "Allison," "Kim," "Paul's Pal" and "Strode Road."

A largely agreeable studio session for trio (and Rollins) fans with an extra half-star for exemplary teamwork and musicianship.