No More Mr. Nice Guy
Just about every track on this CD is a gem. The writing is just phenomenal. The melodic content of the tunes is at some points structured, and at others challenges the listener to follow where the song is going. The interplay between the group's members in achieving subtle nuances and free playing is just wonderful. The most notable soloist on this CD was George Garzone. His squeaks and wails on "Stuntman" along with his fluid lines on "Your Child" proved to me he is an incredibly diverse musician. Tessarollo's boppish lines on "Blues Anyone", and his Metheny-esque textures on "Your Child" were also standouts.
My favorite track on this recording was "Goodnight Sweetheart". It's brooding, moody, watery feel was perfectly complemented by Yates' bass clarinet and Garzone's soprano sax. The voicings that they're playing on top of that feel are simply beautiful. It's simply one of the coolest tunes I've heard in some time. These guys are pretty regular about the dates they play in the area, so catch them. If this recording is any indication of their live performances, you're in for a treat.
- Matthew Bowman
