George Winstone (alto sax/composer); Charlie Stacey (piano); Mikeli Montolli (bass); Jamie Murray (drums).
(Review by Lance).
In an idiom where identity has almost become set in stone (or should that be vinyl?), it comes as somewhat of a surprise to find someone whose style isn't Parker or Pepper, Coleman or Cannonball, Desmond or Dolphy but a player who has incorporated many of those latterday saints into his approach whilst still forging his own identity. Winstone has managed this.
This, however, is a two-edged sword.
The altoist/composer's lyricism is quite beautiful, a floating, ephemeral, sound that drifts like a cloud. Listen to Blues For Chloe. I don't know who Chloe is or was but I need to find out - anyone who hears it will want to know.
On the downside, his licks on the uptempo numbers sound, seemingly, similar. He unleashes them with such rapidity - no denying his technique - that I couldn't help feeling he'd already done that!
The clipped, almost staccato-like phrasing which, to me, is his signature dish, is impressive but, should Winstone move up to a bigger stage, he could become typecast.
In the meantime, just enjoy some original and melodic alto playing.
Not that this is a one-man show. Stacey's piano is on a par and, with the input from Montolli and Murray, it would be difficult to improve upon.
Lance.
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