Mission Statement

Album Review

Jimmy Greene has stood out from the vast majority of emerging tenor saxophonists of his generation because he has sought to develop his own sound along with composing compelling music. This session with pianist Xavier Davis, guitarist Lage Lund, bassist Reuben Rogers, and drummer Eric Harland (like the leader, rising players of his generation who are much in-demand), features nine of his potent compositions. His big tone dominates "Mission Statement," the stimulating post-bop opener. The lush "In Nelba's Love" is a warm, spacious ballad built off a repeated riff. The wild "Mr. Octopus" likely got its title from reaching in several musical directions at once, though the musicians devour Greene's demanding work whole, especially during Davis' expressive solo, while the saxophonist wraps it with a surprising twist. Vibraphonist Stefon Harris is added for the exuberant "Revelation," showcasing Greene's expressive chops on soprano sax, while Greene also plays soprano on a turbocharged setting of sacred music composer Harry Smith's "Give Thanks."