More To The Ear Than Meets The Eye

Seattle-based Bill Anschell's latest CD features a stellar ensemble of that city's finest jazz musicians playing an exciting repertoire of cleverly reshaped standards and Anschell's soulful, poignant originals. A pair of rhythm teams (Jeff Johnson and John Bishop, Doug Miller and Jose Martinez) anchor the recording's fluid, playful melodies, providing an elastic, always-swinging foundation for Anschell's edgy, smart improvisations. Thomas Marriott's tart, understated contributions on trumpet and flugelhorn and Richard Cole's fevered tenor and soprano sax stylings add richness to several standout tracks.