The first volume of
Steve Grossman's two trio sessions,
Way out East, with bassist Joony Booth and drummer
Joe Chambers, exhibits the strong influence of
Sonny Rollins, though the aura of
John Coltrane is also present in his playing. The big-toned tenor saxophonist excels in this setting.
Grossman's aggressive take of the opener, "Bye Bye Blackbird," falters slightly in places with some unnecessary reed squeaks, but overall it is a fine effort. Better are the flawless takes of such perennial favorites as "On Green Dolphin Street," "I'll Remember April," "Star Eyes," and
Miles Davis' "Four."
Chambers' strong percussion drives
Grossman's first-rate original "Taurus People." Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden