J Town Suite
Cora Street, 2024
8/10
The sax and flute player Shawn Maxwell pays tribute to his hometown of Joliet, Illinois here, and he’s got Michael Barton, Collin Clausen and Greg Essig along for the 9 jazz tunes.
“Steelmen March” opens the listen with Maxwell’s rich sax alongside the frisky drums from Essig that pays close attention to mood, and “Fries Or Rings In The Back” follows with flowing sax that allows Clauson’s radiating keys to illuminate the playful spirit.
Into the middle, “In The Shadow Of Stateville” spotlights the dreamy flute amid a light ambience, while “Jerry” is more rock focused, where much melody is present and appreciated.
Close to the end, “Bridge Closed” weaves the rich sax around gentle keys, agile drums and Barton’s strategic bass, and “Ghost Mall On Jefferson” exits with the intimate sax that segues into a free jazz performance of minimal gestures.
An effort that is emotional and not without complicated rhythm and dynamic playing, all the tracks are originals, and they make this 12th album as leader one of Maxwell’s finest.
Travels well with: Ronny Smith- Struttin’; Doug MacDonald- Sextet Session;