Saxophonist Jonathan Orland leads a hard bopping quintet that includes a guitar in the front line rather than the usual second horn (although tenorist Geroge Garzone joins in 3 tracks)on this exciting collecton of originals and standards. There are some very hip vibes on the cruising “Kalinga” and “The Pope and I” that allows the extra rhythm to go into overdrive, while the breezy take of Dave Brubeck’s “In Your Own Sweet Way” coasts like a Chevy V8. Orland’s soprano is quite effective on the languid ballad “Chassidot” while his warm alto is embracing on “Yoni’s Lament.” The addition of Garzone’s tenor adds an extra layer of butterscotch to the desert, with “The Touch of Your Lips” tasting like a thick hot fudge sundae. An enjoyable delight for bop fans.
Bee Jazz Records