Heartcore
WithHeartcore, guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel conjures a different world than fans of his may be accustomed to. We're in fusionland, where his stinging and soothing solos run up against lush keyboard effects and trance-style programming and jazz time is frequently sacrificed to a timeless sense of spiritual striving. Produced by Rosenwinkel and hip-hop notableQ-Tip, this is a smart and freshly conceived if not consistently gripping effort--it could be half as trippy and still alter your consciousness. Acclaimed tenor saxophonistMark Turner, a longtime foil of Rosenwinkel's, is featured, as are bassist Ben Street and drummer Jeff Ballard of the guitarist's working group. Ethan Iverson of the Bad Plus is also on hand for two songs, adding to the flavorful organ and electric piano effects that Rosenwinkel also incorporates into the music. "All the Way to Rajasthan" is a standout cut that bringsMahavishnu-eraJohn McLaughlinto mind.--Lloyd Sachs