This CD for the small Chase Music Group label is a hidden gem, a superior showcase for trumpeter Clay Jenkins. Joined by pianist Reggie Thomas, bassist Tom Warrington, and drummer Steve Houghton, Jenkins performs four of his originals, Thomas' "First Impressions," "Let's Fall in Love," Tadd Dameron's "Soultrane," "Brilliant Corners," and a brief unaccompanied trumpet solo on "Don't Get Around Much Anymore." The music is advanced hard bop with Jenkins really stre...   [ read more ]

CD $15.18

Trumpeter Clay Jenkins' first release on the Jazz Compass label -- which he co-founded -- is a challenging, enjoyable, and edgy collection of songs fully informed by the post-bop aesthetic. Jenkins is a technically adroit, progressive-minded player who also displays a knack for melodic introspection on Azure Eyes. It often seems as if he has so many ideas about how to color chord progressions that he doubles back on his own ideas in mid-sentence, heading off on unexpected and pleasing tangen...   [ read more ]

CD $15.18

CD $15.18