This CD came about following a one-shot concert by trumpeter
John McNeil
and alto saxophonist
Allan Chase
, along with bassist
John Sullivan
and drummer
Eric Thompson
. The program of this studio session focuses on
McNeil
's writing, with plenty of solo space.
's approach to trumpet is lyrical yet deliberately low key. The up-tempo
"Lose My Number"
is an adventurous blend of
post-bop
and
avant-garde
.
Chase
switches to baritone sax and violist
Kate Vincent
and flutist
Derek Olphy
(both guests are multi-tracked to create the sound of a larger group) are added for the lovely
"Faun."
"The Old Standard,"
a trio piece omitting
, was inspired by
"My Shining Hour,"
though the chord changes of this old chestnut are fleeting at best. Two of the most surprising tracks are
pop
tunes, including a freewheeling take of
James Taylor
's
"Fire and Rain"
that only gives itself away as they settle down around the halfway mark; there's also
the Beatles
'
"I Will"
heard in a playful Latin arrangement. This superb date is well worth acquiring. ~ Ken Dryden