Shawn Maxwell alternates his alto sax, soprano sax and clarinet in a variety of mix and matched settings in almost sonata form for seventeen conversations. The overall atmospheres are relaxed, informal and conversant, with each song given an explanation for the moods in the liner notes. His clarinet is quite playful, teamed with Gina DeGregorio on “Lockdown” while on soprano there’s a classical feel when joined with keyboardist/programmer Mark Nelso on “Every Day is Monday” or melded with the pretty voices of Safford II and Keri Johnsrud along with Craig Elliot’s guitar on “No Peace, No Justice”. Most of the other tunes have Maxwell on the warm alto sax, sounding bluesy fo r”JC Jones with Marielle de Rocca Serra/vi, Michael Barton/b and Phil Beale/dr or melancholic when with Brenda Earle Stokes/p on “Breathe”. The messages don’t add to or detract from the overall appreciation of the music itself, which feels like a casual gathering of friends.