April 1997

Avi Lebo Double Trombone Quintet
Shades of Brass
Mapleshade Productions

By Nancy Ann Lee

Classically trained in his native Israel before studying in New York with mentor Slide Hampton, trombonist Avi Lebo performs with Hampton, and his angel, pianist Larry Willis, who proposed the recording to Mapleshade after hearing the kid play in N.Y.C. Bassist Steve Novosel and drummer Jimmy Cobb complete the homogeneous team. Eight eclectic arrangements give abundant leeway for everyone to resourcefully stretch out. Great artistry, reminiscent of 1950s Kai & J.J. quintet. An absorbing listen and promising debut.