This debut album by tenor saxist Ivan Baryshnikov shows a lot of promise, bringing his compositions and arrangements to the for with a group of Marko Churnchetz/p-key, Ryan Berg/b, Samvel Sarkisyan/dr and guest vocalists Hiske Oosterwijk and Mark Evich.
His post bop tenor is strong on the bopping ”Beehive” while some R&B grooves are teamed with Evich on the funky and streetwise title track” while “Song For Lev” is a gorgeous and laconic sigh on the tenorist. Complex and intricate moments take place on “A Talk With The Ocean” and the gentle “Moderate Breeze” which features Berg with the leader in calm waters. The moods are strong all throughout, with seamless solos weaving through the warm charts. Worth a long listen.