The Nashville Jazz Workshop is on to something with its Contemporary Jazz Series hosted by saxophonist Rahsaan Barber. On Sunday, March 7, 2010, woodwindist Chris West presented an adventurous two set program of original compositions taken from West's current CD "Jazzmanic," and from the forthcoming trilogy of CD's entitled "Surprise." West was accompanied by drummer Derrek Phillips, bassist Jerry Navarro, organist Charles Treadway, keyboardist and pianist Paul Horton, guitarist Adam Agati, trombonist Oscar Uttterstrom and saxophonist Evan Cobb.

The first set featured West and his ensemble at their muscular best, with each musician being highlighted on lengthy groove oriented solos that showcased their individual talents. The highlight of the evening was during the second set when West invited Saxophonist Rahsaan Barber to join him and Evan Cobb for a soulful "Texas Tough Tenor" syle showdown, with the trio of saxophonists trading and finishing each others solos mid-phrase. If the Contemporary Jazz Series is a showcase of things to come, these Tennessee Tenors are the future. For more information about Chris West visit: www.myspace.com/jazzmanic