With his two previous albums The Real Quietstorm and Conversin 'With The Elders, saxophonist James Carter seemed to be joining developments in jazz that were based on the revival of bebop, which was rather conservative in its tone and on jazz as atmospheric music. With his new CD In Carterian Fashion, he clearly shows why after his first two CDs he was seen as the refreshing sound in jazz: in addition
… to good knowledge of traditional jazz, challenging innovative playing. Carter really rips with his saxophones (he plays tenor, soprano and baritone sax and bass clarinet on this CD). He mainly received guidance from his regular trio. The choice of hammond organ on this CD instead of piano makes his playing even more 'groovy'. In the traditional compositions Down To The River and Trouble In The World, the organ gives the songs more soul. The beginning of Trouble In The World also makes clear what is so specific and challenging about Carter's playing, something that can also be heard in songs like Skull Grabbin 'and the title track In Carterian Fashion. This ten track CD is a top jazz CD that will not leave jazz lovers indifferent. (JW)more