June 2008

Hadley Caliman
Gratitude
Origin Records

By Forrest Dylan Bryant

It’s been 31 years since his last album, but veteran West Coast saxophonist Hadley Caliman shows he’s still got chops in this brisk, joyous return. Caliman’s tone has a natural, humanist sound, with a soft edge and a voicelike cadence that makes even quick-tempo burners feel uniquely personal. Joe Locke’s effortlessly cascading vibe lines and Joe La Barbera’s tasty, rolling drum work provide steady momentum, while Caliman and trumpeter/producer Thomas Marriott make merry with gliding solos and warm bonhomie.