Jerry Bergonzi: Simply Put

The saxophonist transmits an authoritative presence, abetted by his ace rhythm section. A brilliant improviser, Bergonzi whirls through medium to up-tempo swing grooves, interlaced with ferocious bop stylizations and sinuous unison choruses with pianist Bruce Barth. They improvise upon a given theme, often spiced with warmly melodic overtones and memorable hooks.

Bergonzi's sax parts are often drenched with emotive and vocal-like attributes, and he looms as a vivid storyteller on the revved up swing rendition of "Out Of Nowhere." The quartet executes an up-tempo ballad during "What If," as the leader translucently melds power with tenderness, while topping it off with yearning notes. Here and throughout, Barth acts as the middleman due to his vibrant comping and contrasting solo spots. Moreover, Bergonzi uses the soprano sax to generate a sweet harmonic overture on the finale, "Malaga." A superior modern jazz exposition.

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