Painter's Spring

Bassist William Parker is well known on the international jazz scene for his work as a sideman in bands led by Cecil Taylor and others, but he's also an excellent leader and composer in his own right. Here Parker is the obvious linchpin, spurring both his partners on with his imaginative ear for melody and rhythm. Rhythmic soul mate and drummer Hamid Drake answers the call, propelling these cuts with a free-time pulse that is urgent without being overbearing. Often raising his horn in long sonorous sounds and gentle phrasing, reedist Daniel Carter keeps things laid back and musical throughout. While Painter's Spring marks the first meeting of this group (as such), the trio works through Parker's material (plus Ellington's "Come Sunday" and the traditional "Balm in Gilead") with a nice light touch that might surprise those familiar with the musicians' previous work. This is a rare case when the music lives up to the potential and even offers a few revelations. --Tad Hendrickson