Leave It To Luther by Luther Thomas Quartet

15 Aug

Written by Glenn Astarita
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St. Louis., Missouri reared alto saxophonist Luther Thomas spent several years in Denmark yet can be heard on three CDs for this upstate New York area, impov based label. And while Thomas is well traveled, he might not be considered a household name within modern jazz circles. But, the artist does possess a riveting sound and style via sporadic bursts of power and soul-drenched phrasings sandwiched amongst these generally upbeat works. Guitarist Ethan Mann is a good foil for Thomas, as the unit traverses variable swing grooves, and complex paths, often residing within a free-bop style methodology. They also execute sanguine melodies to complement a sequence of events, awash with ricocheting dialogues and climactic opuses. However, with their duet performance on "Body and Soul," Thomas and Mann convey a hybrid, freeform/mainstream train of thought. Otherwise, they generate heat on simmering works such as "Nova Zembla," and elsewhere. It’s an endearing affair, for sure!

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Luther Thomas Quartet
CD Title: Leave It To Luther
Genre: Free Jazz / Avante Garde
Year Released: 2003
Record Label: CIMP
Musicians: Luther Thomas (alto sax), Ethan Mann (guitar), Brian Smith (bass), Cliff Barbaro (drums)
Label Website: http://www.cadencebuilding.com
Rating: Four Stars