THE CLASSICAL JAZZ QUARTET

It is hard to not compare this Classical Jazz Quartet to the Modern Jazz Quartet. They both have the same format of outstanding individual superstars, they both have a major leaning toward classical music. Most listeners might not even be surprised or offended if the CJQ popped out “The Cylinder” or “Django.” But, alas, while comparable, they are not cut from the same cloth. And, this is good for the listener, for we now have a second great piano-vibes-bass-drums lineup to listen to. To date, the Classical Jazz Quartet, an American band comprised of Kenny Barron, Stefon Harris, Ron Carter, and Lewis Nash, has devoted its attention to interpreting the Classical Music Repertoire. The brainchild of producer/arranger/sax master Bob Belden, The Classical Jazz Quartet is the working end of Belden’s fertile plan for classical music cum jazz. Stefon Harris is the youngster in the group, but plays with the information and read more...