High Plains
Origin, 2022
8/10
The saxophone extraordinaire Stephen Martin returns with his sophomore album as leader, and he’s got Peter Schlamb (vibraphone, piano), Ben Leifer (basses) and David Hawkins (drums) along with him for the loose but also very focused 8 tracks of timeless jazz sounds.
“Horizons” opens the listen with a dreamy blur of quick keys, soulful brass and precise drumming, and “The Void” continues the creativity with firm piano, lively bass plucking and a warm but adventurous spirit.
At the halfway point, “Stablemates”, with Bobby Watson, makes the most out of Martin’s sax prowess amid well timed vibraphone from Schlamb, while “High Plains” moves with a calmer approach of bright vibraphone alongside exploratory brass.
Near to the end, “Euphony” welcomes Matt Otto for the very unpredictable and radiant album highlight, and “Simone” follows with a swift and dynamic blend of all the player’s talents present in spades.
An effort that benefits much from solos and the influence of John Coltrane, Frank Foster and many others, Martin’s very modern vision of jazz certainly draws from the past, and unfolds with a rhythmic, sometimes feral demeanor that makes a lasting impact.
Travels well with: Nathan Borton- Each Step; Piet Verbist- Secret Exit To Another Dimension