Danish tenor saxophonist Christian Winther put together a potent quintet for his third SteepleChase release, including the outstanding American trumpeter Marcus Printup, pianist Richard Doron Johnson, bassist Carlos Henríquez, and drummer Ali Jackson. The big-toned tenorist contributed two originals, which open and close the CD. "Milla's Bounce" is a bouncing, upbeat hard bop vehicle full of great solos and lively ensembles, with a bit of Latin flavor kicked in at the end. Winther's "Soul House" is an Afro-Cuban theme, powered by Jackson's driving percussion. The leader's percolating scoring of Thelonious Monk's "Green Chimneys" showcases Henríquez and Printup in sizzling solos before Winther steps forward to add his own soulful touch. Johnson's "Ferris Wheel" is another spirited effort, an unusually constructed tune fueled by his enticing, shifting vamp. Jackson's lyrical originals "For Kenny" and "Aziel Dance" nicely round out this enjoyable session. ~ Ken Dryden, AMG.
SteepleChase Records, SCCD
31633, 2008
Recorded January, 2007
Musicians:
Christian Winther - Tenor
Saxophone
Marcus Printup - Trumpet
Richard Doron Johnson - Piano
Carlos Henríquez - Bass
Ali Jackson - Drums
Tracks:
1. Milla's Bounce {Christian
Winther} (7:37)
2. For Kenny {Ali Jackson}
(8:16)
3. Aziel Dance {Ali Jackson}
(7:27)
4. Ones Of Wisdom {Frederick
Sanders} (7:30)
5. Ferris Wheel {Richard
Johnson} (9:09)
6. Dienda {Kenny Kirkland}
(5:05)
7. Green Chimneys {Thelonious
Monk} (7:21)
8. Soul House {Christian
Winther} (7:36)
Total Time: 60:05
Credits:
Producer, Mixing - Nils
Winther
Recording Engineer - Jon
Rosenberg
Photography - Greg Miles