It's hard not to like the infectious 'power jazz' played by this group featuring the talented Ethan Iverson on piano. As with their debut, this follow-up features some originals with a couple of off-the-wall covers thrown in for good measure. The Pixies' 'Velouria' is a treat, but how about that mind-boggling version of Black Sabbath's 'Iron Man'!
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Wake Up! (To What's Happening) Matt Wilson's Arts & Crafts 2003 [Palmetto]
As a leader drummer Matt Wilson continues to impress, with this the second outing from his Arts & Crafts outfit featuring Larry Goldings on keyboards and trumpeter Terell Stafford. The music showcases a grab-bag of modern styles ranging from the more conventional to a type of proto-fusion. Wilson's fans should find this very satisfying.
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Ivey-Divey Don Byron 2004 [Blue Note]
For those who found Byron's earlier records (e.g. Tuskegee Experiments) just a little too far out, this nifty piece of post-bop swing might be just the tonic. A technically capable clarinetist, artists of note joining Byron here include Jason Moran on piano and drummer Jack DeJohnette. A sort of mainstream record with a quirky edge.
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Eternal Branford Marsalis Quartet 2004 [Rounder]
The oldest Marsalis brother, saxophonist Branford, turns his hand to ballads. Each band member contributes an original and the result is a pure joy to behold. Without exception the tracks here are lilting excursions through the depths of the soul. Branford proves there is more than one Marsalis with legitimate claims to jazz superstardom.
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Gathering of Spirits Saxophone Summit 2004 [Telarc]
Saxophone Summit is Michael Brecker, Dave Liebman and Joe Lovano - three accomplished players now regarded as veterans of contemporary jazz. Brecker continues to prove he is a force to be reckoned with and slays his soft jazz image. The inclusion of two of Coltrane's more challenging numbers hint at the freedom within.
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Vietnam: Reflections Billy Bang 2005 [Justin Time]
The follow-up to 2001's superb Vietnam: The Aftermath is a mesmerising hard bop excursion into the depths of violinist Billy Bang's soul. Occasionally spiced with the cultural influence of traditional Vietnamese music, this record also features Henry Threadgill on flute. A real surprise package that should win more than a few fans.
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7 Black Butterflies Drew Gress 2005 [Koch]
Downtown New York avant-garde bassist Drew Gress is in top form on this, his third outing as a leader. It is an all-original set featuring the likes of trumpeter Ralph Alessi, pianist Craig Taborn and altoist Tim Berne in support. Gress gives his bass a workout on the hard boppish 'Bright Idea', while elsewhere creativity abounds.
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Garden of Eden Paul Motian Band 2006 [ECM]
At 75 drummer Paul Motian is still sounding decidedly fresh, here utilising two saxophonists and three guitarists to reinvent some bop by the likes of Mingus, Monk and Parker. There is plenty of new stuff on offer too, with the ensemble managing to combine typically reflective ECM soundscapes with occasional dabs of sheer creativity.
