Rob Levit, a lyrical guitarist who sometimes recalls Jim Hall a little, although he has his own sound, heads a quintet also including flutist Michel Gentile, trumpeter Dave Ballou, bassist Bob Nieske, and drummer George Schuller. Levit's nine originals (the other song is the standard "It Could Happen to You") are episodic and consistently intriguing. Included are tributes to Ornette Coleman, Sam Rivers, and Billie Holiday, plus pieces inspired by Thelonious Monk and Jack Kerouac. The unpredictable but logical arrangements, high musicianship, and colorful solos (which are a logical extension of the ensembles) make this an excellent acquisition for modern jazz listeners.
© Scott Yanow /TiVo