Some Swedish post-bop can be quite cerebral. In the Scandinavian countries, Stefan Isaksson has no problem reaching intellectuals, but the Swedish tenor saxophonist also has something warm and emotional to offer -- in other words, Three Cushions appeals to the heart as well as the brain. This 1997 date (which is more post-bop than hard bop) demonstrates that Isaksson's influences have taught him well. The Swede's playing and writing underscores his appreciation of Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane, and George Coleman, and like those musicians, Isaksson knows how to be intellectual and soulful at the same time. When lyrical, introspective offerings like "Mourning Dawn," "Sharp Island," and "Camilla" are playing, you know that Isaksson isn't just showing off his chops or trying to impress you with his technique -- he's communicating with the listener and sharing his inner thoughts and emotions. And this is the sort of thing that separates the men from the boys in jazz. Any run-of-the-mill jazz student who spends enough time in the shed can learn to play "Giant Steps" really fast, but Three Cushions has something deeper to offer. To his credit, Isaksson does most of the writing on this album. The only piece that he didn't write by himself is the brief "Let Go," which he co-wrote with pianist Gösta Rundqvist. Gratefully, Isaksson surrounds himself with sympathetic improvisers; pianist Ake Johansson and fellow tenor man Bernt Rosengren are among the respected Scandinavians who are featured on this captivating Swedish release. ~ Alex Henderson