A promising young talent who emerged during the mid-'90s (though his first CD wasn't issued until 1999), alto saxophonist
Mike DiRubbo changed his approach for this 2009 release, omitting piano in favor of veteran vibraphonist
Steve Nelson, with bassist
Dwayne Burno and the late drummer
Tony Reedus rounding out the quartet. Seven of the nine pieces are originals by the saxophonist.
DiRubbo's opener, "Repercussion," is an enticing blues riff that showcases the leader,
Nelson, and
Reedus in turn. "Highbridge Lullaby" is more of a breezy waltz, while the tense post-bop cooker "Nelsonian" has a playful call and response between
DiRubbo and
Nelson, along with sizzling solos.
DiRubbo's alto shines in the buoyant setting of
Dave Brubeck's "The Duke," while the sole standard is a heartfelt rendition of "Too Late Now."
Mike DiRubbo shows plenty of potential with this exciting effort. ~ Ken Dryden