Saltman-Knowles Quintet: It’s About the Melody

This is the fourth CD from bassist Mark Saltman and pianist William Knowles, but it’s their first foray with a vocalist. So it’s not surprising that the 10 original tunes here often sound like vocalese translations of instrumental numbers-their bright, sinuous melodies sometimes rushing or straining against singer Lori Williams rather than being carried by her. But the music is tastefully rendered, the lyrics are disarmingly clever and Williams deftly navigates the sometimes-treacherous territory with a wide-open, sparkling delivery.

Originally Published May 1, 2008