Banned In New York
With 10 recordings as a leader behind him, saxophonist Greg Osby shows both musical grace and cool confidence onBanned in New York. Working acoustically in front of a small live audience, Osby and his group stretch out and explore four old classics and one new, original composition. Accompanied by pianist Jason Moran, bassist Atsushi Osada, and drummer Rodney Green, Osby plays alto and soprano saxophone in a bold, omnivorous style. On an ambitious interpretation of Charlie Parker's "Big Foot," Osby's darting alto reaches back to bebop as well as flirts with his own R&B; roots. The band also does excellent work with Duke Ellington's "I Didn't Know About You" and Sonny Rollins's "Pent-Up House" before closing with a quick take on Thelonious Monk's "52nd Street Theme." --Mitch Myers