September 2001

Andrew Rathbun
Jade
Fresh Sound New Talent

By Peter Lowry

Saxophonist Andrew Rathbun uses poetry as a focal point on Jade, although he stretches a single work-"Lost Sister" by Cathy Song-across its entire length, surrounding it with a similar, though harder swinging, orchestral warmth. There's velvety glow to the arrangements played by Rathbun, trumpeter Taylor Haskins, flutist Helen Richman and French-hornist Chris Komer. The rhythm section includes familiar Fresh Sound names Street and Schuller, along with pianist John Stetch. The expressive Brazilian singer Luciana Souza adds another pretty melodic layer.