T
enor saxist Eric Alexander has one of the best beefy sounds around these days. He surrounds himself with some kindred spirits in Harold Mabern/p, John Webber/b and Joe Farnsweorth/dr with trumpeter Jeremy Pelt joining in for a few tracks as well. They’ve all got hard bop in their souls, with hip takes of “Save Your Love For Me” and Mabern’s “Bee Hive” with Pelt’s trumpet buzzing along and creating a honey of a session. A funny “Blueski For Vonski” has some vocal reportage, and soulful sounds are emitted on “Eddie Harris” and “Mr. Stitt.” What impresses the most here is how Alexander fills your ears with warm breezes and morning fog, as Mabern boppily bounces along. What more do you want? Put some Worcestershire sauce over this red meat and chew!
High Note Records