Sam Blakeslee Quintet: Selective Coverage

Selective Coverage is a remarkable and forward-thinking release by the Sam Blakeslee Quintet. The project reaffirms the group's ability to break the patterns and explore new ideas, while staying true to the aesthetics of contemporary jazz. But beneath the technical precision and creative compositions is the deeper meaning of the album's title; it is inspired by the experiences of minorities, their struggles in how they are portrayed by the media and need for universal health care.

One of the things that make this release really special is the quality of the arrangements, which feel spontaneous and diverse. It's quite hard to second-guess the flow of the music, and if the band is allowed to be a guide, they will take listeners to new, fascinating and remarkable places. Trombonist Blakeslee is a skilled and progressive player. A veteran of jazz festivals around the world, Blakeslee utilizes that knowledge and experience to produce a fresh, innovative effort. Each track sounds different from the other, breathing its own air.

Selective Coverage is a striking example of skilled modern jazz, made with passion, vision, integrity, and love for the craft. This record highlights the ability of Blakeslee's trusty quintet as well as the great chemistry of the musicians involved in the project.