Finnish multi-reed player
Antti Sarpila has developed a strong following within a few short years following his 2001 debut CD as a leader. Equally talented on tenor sax, clarinet, and soprano sax,
Sarpila gives this set a truly international flavor, with Italian pianist
Rossano Sportiello, Australian bassist
Nicki Parrott, and American drummer
Ed Metz, Jr.. Opening on tenor in a easygoing take of "How About You?" he showcases each player in turn. The "I Got Rhythm"-derived "Lesterity" is an obvious salute to
Lester Young and would be perfect for any jam session. He revisits the long forgotten "Whispers in the Dark" delving in playful exchanges with
Sportiello with
Metz whispering with his brushwork. His engaging "'Deed I Do" showcases
Parrott playing both pizzicato and arco solos.
Sarpila's upbeat "Swing à la Chopin" is based on one of
Fryderyk Chopin's best-loved waltzes. Fans of mainstream jazz will be delighted with this enjoyable CD. ~ Ken Dryden