Joan Hutton / Sue Orfield: Splash

Alto saxophonist Joan Hutton and tenor saxophonist Sue Orfield co-lead a quintet out of the US Midwest called Take That Back. The band's distinctive sound rises out of the rich dialogue between their two leaders. They flow, stomp and roll through a program of mostly original music with high spirits and style.

"Splash" and "Playhouse Bats" work through lively New Orleans funk grooves and "#sixfeet" sounds like a Second Line variation on John Coltrane's "Giant Steps." "Atari Afternoon" and "Popcorn" are brisk, angular pieces with quirky soul leanings. "For Anita" has the saxophones harmonizing nicely on a slinky tropical melody with edgy piano support while on "Wakanda Park" they twirl around each other over an African folk rhythm.

There is a more sophisticated edge to the mellow sound of "City Lights and Fireflies" where Hutton takes a romantic solo turn on alto with Orfield's tenor in support. Some of the most disarming music on the album comes when Hutton switches to bass clarinet. Her sound combined with Orfield's tenor is really striking on "Lake Rosseau 1980" and the one non-original piece on the album, Henry Mancini's "Moon River."

The rhythm section's work complements the two leaders very well throughout. Pianist Ted Godbout fills the space behind the saxophones with jangling counter-melodies and bright accents. At the same time, bassist Kameron Markworth and drummer David Schmalenberger are solid, both in their supporting roles and the occasional feature bit like the nimble bass and drum serenade that decorates "For Anita."

This album is a potent and lively set of music that radiates joy and good feelings. The tunes have familiar outlines but enough original twists to keep the listener engaged. Hutton and Orfield have a great sound together and this entire band comes off as a special unit.

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