Space Bugs

A study in classy large-ensemble jazz performance. Wil Swindler and his alto saxophone have been guiding the vision of this band for a decade, and the two live sets that make up this album show in the ease and chemistry displayed by the band. Regardless of who is handling the solo at the time, the band feels more like an orchestra providing the perfect amount of support to help the lead instrument stand out. They are also able to handle the compositors of others (like the Beatles via "Julia" and "Blackbird") with care and respect as they produce their own sound. The harmonies produced here would make Gil Evans proud even as it plays intricate, detailed lines. This is grace and passion executed in the smoothest form without coming off as cliche.