Jazz Upstairs - Live At the Guru Bar

The members of the Rex Richardson Quintet, who first came together in 2005 when they worked at Athens' Guru Bar, know their jazz history. Richardson at times hints at the chance-taking styles of Don Ellis and Kenny Wheeler, while altoist Takis Paterelis does a close imitation of Eric Dolphy during the first half of his solo on "The Claim of the Ideal." However, the players are also quite creative and versatile. Richardson has an original sound, Paterelis can hold his own with the top New York players, and the rhythm section is both swinging and unpredictable. Their live set includes an opening bebop romp ("What Is This Thing Called Love"), a little bit of funky jazz, an introspective ballad, Freddie Hubbard's adaptation of the "Giant Steps" chord changes ("Dear John"), a humorous blues, and songs that hint at Art Blakey and Mingus. The trumpet-drums duet on "Kryptonite" is particularly impressive, and Richardson's utilization of the piccolo trumpet as a solo instrument in jazz is practically unprecedented. Highly recommended.