Adam Kolker, a talented tenor saxophonist who played with
Ray Barretto during 1994-2002, has a tone and style that is reminiscent of
Joe Henderson. In recent times, in addition to working with the
Vanguard Orchestra, the Maria Schneider Big Band,
Judi Silvano, and a variety of New York-based groups, he has co-led a quartet with guitarist
John Abercrombie. On
Flag Day,
Kolker has
Abercrombie in his quartet along with bassist
John Hebert and drummer
Paul Motian. The piano-less group has a very sparse sound and the interpretations of
Kolker's originals, "Last Night When We Were Young" and
Thelonious Monk's "Played Twice" are mostly taken at relaxed and even introspective tempos, with
Motian providing most of the fire.
Kolker, who also plays his atmospheric bass clarinet and soprano sax on a few numbers, is a subtle player who deserves a close listen. His interplay with his quiet sidemen works quite well. ~ Scott Yanow