Search - Bob Mintzer :: Quality Time

Hang Time Begets Quality Time

Larry Nai | Wilmington, DE United States | 09/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Saxophonist/arranger Bob Mintzer, whose remarkable series of big-band recordings for the DMP label is one of the enduring pleasures of the Jazz scene, scales down the format on this release for a set of concentrated fire that has the warmth of a family circle. The circle includes old friend Peter Erskine, whose opening snare/high-hat kick establishes the spacious rhythm of the lead-off title track, a soulful excursion whose easy-going gait characterizes much of Quality Time. Pianist Phil Markowitz has a left hand I'd love to shake someday, placing sprung harmonies under beautifully-phrased arpeggios, while Jay Anderson's bass maneuvers are taut and fluid throughout the session. Among the many highlights of the session are "Bossa," where Mintzer slyly inserts a reference to Chris Montez's `60's hit, "Call Me," and the truly mean groove of "Groovetown," which sports a wondrous tenor solo by the leader that displays his piquant harmonic sense. "All Is Quiet," whose lyrics were recently graced with a vocal by Kurt Elling on the Yellowjackets Club Nocturne, is heard here in an instrumental version that takes on the power of the John Coltrane Quartet's "Alabama" at points. The circle of buddies spending quality hang-time with Mintz extends to his other band, the Yellowjackets, on two satisfying tracks: "Emit A1" has razor-sharp drum work from Will Kennedy, and thick, pliant bass courtesy of Jimmy Haslip. "Family" is an exciting kicker, with joyous piano from Russell Ferrante, that ends the disc on an affirmatively swinging note. Definitely one of the best of the year."