Affinity consists of Joe Rosenberg on soprano, Rob Sudduth playing tenor, bassist Richard Saunders and drummer Bobby Lurie. They have a very inclusive approach in picking out "nine modern jazz classics," so this inventive CD ranges in repertoire from
Lee Morgan and
Thelonious Monk to
Ornette Coleman and
Anthony Braxton (two compositions, including his infamous march). Affinity's playful interplay is a bit reminiscent of Steve Lacy's early recordings, and the versatile solos fit into the mood of each piece. ~ Scott Yanow