Bobby Shew, Gary Foster and Friends Play the Music of Reed Kotler

Bobby Shew, Gary Foster and Friends

Play the Music of Reed Kotler

Torii Records

Bobby Shew, trumpet, flugelhorn; Gary Foster, flute, alto flute, alto and tenor saxophones; Bill Cunliffe, piano; Darek /Oles Oleszkiewicz, bass; Paul Kreibich, drums, wind chimes

Life's little coincidences. We received a couple of old Jazz magazines, dated 1987, from a chum in London who was clearing out his loft; Bobby Shew was advertised to record with the BBC Radio Big Band, and pictured holding a hybrid double horn. We then learn that Bobby Shew is to play Vienna in the near future, and now this double CD to review. We are not surprised that the cosmic organizer has taken so much trouble because this is a really great set, and an excellent introduction to the music of Reed Kotler. 21 tracks and not a dud one among them. Mainstream modern Jazz played by a bunch of men who are all quality pros, you know, when real musicians are required in a studio, these are the guys they call. There is something rather wonderful about listening to musicians like this, they make it sound so easy, so right. The charming ballad Happy Day should be given lyrics, it's sure strong enough. But you don't pick out favorites from this set, although we loved the groove on Tuesday Blues. This is a situation where picking a favorite musician is difficult because everybody contributes brilliantly on what is a thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours of music. Belongs in everyonets collection.

by Lawrence Brazier

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