In the Spur of the Moment
The jazz world needs more Steve Turres. An exceptional technician with a soaring, soulful tone and unique phrasing, Turre is perhaps the leading trombonist of the day. As if that weren't enough, Turre also wails on his self-designed conch shells, producing a reverberant sound that can be eerie, serene, and robust. So the typical jazz approach is not for Turre. Nope, this dude has a concept. Using three piano-based quartets forIn the Spur of the Moment, Turre touches on trad, postbop, and Afro Cuban jazz amalgams. The "Blues in Jazz" featuresRay Charlesand is a rare chance to hear the master performer tickle the ivories on classic tunes. Charles's fascinating choice of chords and harmonies is a delight, as are his solos. "Modern and Modal" showsStephen Scottto great advantage withJack DeJohnetteandBuster Williams, the group roasting the joint on "Something for John" and the title track. Though all are fine throughout, Turre's perfect phrasing, unrelenting ideas, and burnished tone can singe the hairs on your neck. Finally, Afro-Cuban Sounds gathersChucho Valdesand rising drum star Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez together for spirited banter that climaxes with the mad montuno of "Descarga Ahora," with yet another witty Turre 'bone excursion. The ultimate desert island disc?In the Spur of the Momentis a party--sweet, lowdown, and scalding.--Ken Micallef