Search - Alexander McCabe :: The Round

For his first national album release, The Round (WAMCO Music, October 11), alto saxophonist Alexander McCabe brings his own personality and perspective to an immensely pleasing program of original compositions that exhibit not only his own considerable artistic gifts but also those of pianist-accordion player Joe Barbato, bassist Ugonna Okegwo, and drummer Steve Johns. Never falling prey to routine, McCabe?s modern-minded jazz quartet has both the polish of experience and the desire to look forward on their own terms. Creativity and approachability are not mutually exclusive. McCabe, who has played in formidable bands led by Ray Charles and Chico O?Farrill, says, ?What I tried to do on this CD is make music that is both inventive and interesting, while at the same time making music that is accessible to people who aren?t necessarily jazz musicians or aficionados. While I?d like the listener to hear that I know how to play the saxophone well, I?m hoping that that will come through from just enjoying what I hope is simply good music.?