West Coast bassist
Rob Thorsen's third CD features a mix of standards, classic jazz compositions, infrequently played gems, and four superb originals. Accompanied by pianist
Mike Wofford and either Duncan Moore or Harold Mason on drums, as well as special guests
Chuck Manning (tenor sax), Kamau Kenyatta (soprano sax), and Holly Hofmann (flute),
Thorsen's approach to each selection is refreshing. The trio interpretation of "Besame Mucho" is highlighted by the leader's mellow arco bass, while "Let's Fall in Love" is heard in an upbeat calypso setting, featuring
Manning's dancing sax. Two rarely recorded works by
Billy Strayhorn, "The Intimacy of the Blues" and "Drawing Room Blues," merit high praise.
Wofford's swinging piano is the center of attention in the former, while the latter song features the leader's intricate pizzicato lines.
Thorsen's compositions -- including his playful "Blues Clues," a brief duet with
Manning ("Disarry"), the very tense "Sad Guy," and "Would You?" (a delightfully twisted reworking of
Dizzy Gillespie's "Woody 'n You") -- demonstrate his promise as a composer. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden