Bassist-composer Arthur Kell fronts a crew of top-shelf improvisers and consummate team players-alto saxophonist Loren Stillman, guitarist Brad Shepik, drummer Mark Ferber-on this winning quartet outing. The riff-based opener, “Quarter Sawn,” recalls the infectious energy and wit of Ornette Coleman’s catchiest avant-groove-oriented writing for his electrified Prime Time, and the moody and mysterious “Ijinna” showcases Stillman’s extraordinarily fluid lines along with Shepik’s luminous, unhurried guitar solo.
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