The brilliant saxophonist
James Carter and his quartet (which also includes pianist
Craig Taborn, bassist
Jaribu Shahid and drummer
Tani Tabbal) welcome some of
Carter's musical heroes as guests throughout
Conversin' with the Elders.
Carter matches wits with the eccentric trumpeter
Lester Bowie on "Freereggaehibop" and the often-hilarious "Atitled Valse"; he also features the legendary (but rarely recorded) Detroit altoist Larry Smith on "Parker's Mood," showcases
Count Basie veterans
Harry "Sweets" Edison and
Buddy Tate on two swing standards apiece (
Tate's work on clarinet during "Blue Creek" is memorable), and interacts with baritonist
Hamiet Bluiett on "Naima" and an
Anthony Braxton march. Switching between tenor, alto, baritone and bass clarinet,
Carter makes each of his guests feel at home while pushing them to stretch themselves. A consistently colorful and generally swing-oriented set. ~ Scott Yanow