Tiptoes
Desert Heart, 2021
8/10
A multi-instrumetalist, composer and recording artist who is well versed in jazz, rock and classical sounds, Max Highstein brings a wealth of talent and experience to 11 originals that take some esteemed help across the diverse and colorful arrangements.
Highstein leads with the playful title track, where Mark Clark’s percussion anchors the strategic use of brass and soothing woodwinds, and “The Listener” follows with effective flute from John Yoakum as well as Highstein’s soulful sax in the highly melodic landscape.
“All Bounced Up”, a particularly lively tune, lands in the middle and recruits frisky keys thanks to Highstein as Jeff Pevar’s skilled guitar work makes an impression, while “Skycap Bevnap” benefits from airy flute and warm piano amid the timeless atmosphere. “The Weaver’s Tale”, one of the album’s best, is then textured beautifully to emit the most amount of impact thanks to Ed Willett’s cello and Highstein’s finger acrobatics on piano.
Near to the end, the upbeat and charming “Toe Trucker” showcases Pevar’s profound guitar skills alongside Willet’s cello talent, and “Path Of The Heart” exits the listen with Rusty Crutcher’s alto and tenor sax front and center as the ensemble birth a very unique brand of jazz.
Highstein and company make the most of every second here, where their collective strength illuminates his vision of jazz, rock and classical working together synergistically to keep the listener engaged from beginning to end.
Travels well with: Blue Muse- It Never Entered My Mind; Slide Attack- Road Trip