Jerry Bergonzi: Tenor Talk

Several things should be noted about Bergonzi's tenor style: first, he is fluent without being immoderately derivative; second, he knows how to swing freely, and does so often; third, there's more than a touch of the great Sonny Rollins in his tone and phrasing. This is immediately apparent on the opening number, George Gershwin's "Who Cares?," but maintains throughout, as does Bergonzi's admiration for his other seminal influences, Hank Mobley (to whom the easygoing theme "Hank" is dedicated) and John Coltrane.

After "Hank," the first of Bergonzi's six original compositions, comes "Girl Idlig," a nickname for Bergonzi's daughter, Gabriella; the gently rocking "Soul Mission," Latin-tinged "Splurge" and dark-hued "Wippin' and Waulpin.'" The edgy finale, "Left of Memory," says Bergonzi, is based on the standard "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To," but one must take his word for that, as the song's lovely melody is buried deep beneath Bergonzi's panoramic revision.

Bergonzi receives steady support from his working European rhythm section (which includes one American, bassist Dave Santoro). For those who dig tenor saxophone (this writer is one), this is Tenor Talk of a high order. While Bergonzi breaks no new ground, he is a sharp and resourceful improviser who always brings his "A" game to the session.

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