Rating:

Meet Andy Parsons, a solid tenor-sax player firmly grounded in the mainstream camp, but with a trained ear that is open to exploring the broader sonics of the post-bop world. He displays a decidedly lyrical side in this quartet outing, but also loves to wander into modal territory with twists and turns that surprise, but do not startle on this highly listenable, smooth flowing but unfailingly interesting CD. Nine of the 10 cuts are Parsons's originals, and clearly he is a gifted writer with lovely melodies swimming in his head. A semifinalist in the 2002 Thelonius Monk Competition, Parsons has surrounded himself with some terrific players to enhance his reflections. Guitarist Ben Monder doesn't steal the limelight, but gives harmonic breath to the melodic framework with his incredible, serpentine chords that wind around a melody and break out in unexpected ways without ever losing the link. The busy bass of John Patitucci enhances with respect and sensitivity while Gene Lewin on drums gives colour, shape and rhythmic drive to the ensemble. This is not a blow-your-head-off session, but the interplay offers refreshing rewards.

— Irwin Block

© 2003 Montreal Gazette