Impasse

Album Review

This was Glenn Wilson's first release as a leader, and although he went on to record some fine albums, he is largely forgotten as a player, but this is one of his best. While Wilson cites Pepper Adams as a primary influence, and navigates the changes with the focused concentration of Adams, he boasts a uniquely full and juicy tone that makes almost every note a joy to hear. Too, the superb choice of tunes mixes some striking pieces from the jazz repertoire (such as Charles Mingus' "Duke Ellington's Sound of Love" and Benny Golson's "Stablemates") with several Wilson originals. Top flight baritone sax players are a rarity, with some performers burdened by a thin tone. That is why Wilson is such a joy: his rapturous sound explodes on the faster numbers and dances elegantly on the slower ones. Thankfully, he never grandstands; instead he pursues a quiet, focused, and unpretentious artistry that envelops the listener in its lush sound. The somewhat non-descript all-star rhythm section of Harold Danko on piano, Dennis Irwin on bass, and Adam Nussbaum on drums fits right in, offering rock-solid support with considerable ease. The rhythm trio steps aside when Wilson solos, keeping the focus on the saxophonist.