Warrior status identifies the doer, the defender of the flame on the local scene. The warrior’s skills and deeds may be recommended by peers near and far, but veritable big-time stardom seldom ensues, and probably isn’t an essential measure of valor and perseverance. Carl Leukaufe, vibraphonist, Chicago modernist, veteran local warrior-hero inspired by Bags in occasional turns of phrases. This CD is his leader debut featuring two quartets anchored by drummer Robert Barty: one further documenting Lin Halliday’s tenor work; the other with trombonist Kevin Quail and pianist Jodie Christian. The excellent program offers authoritative readings of “Airegin,” “Vierd Blues” and Barry’s “Blues For John Gilmore” with Halliday leading, and for the trombone edition, Pettiford’s “Tricotism,” “Pannonica,” and Leukaufe’s “Little Warrior” among others. Lovers of vigorous, straight-forward jazz ought to enjoy Carl Leukaufe’ s sagacious musicianship and the glories he and cohorts invest in their work. Let’s have more!
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