River Paths

There are two Medlers in the Portland, Oregon-based Medler Sextet—tenor saxophonist Michelle and bassist Ben—who together comprise the nucleus of a sturdy ensemble whose harmonious empathy and distinctive point of view should please most advocates of thought-based contemporary jazz.

The session opens and closes with competing yet none too dissimilar versions of a "Subway Jam" (morning, then evening), on both of which Michelle Medler and her front-line companions—trumpeter Paul Mazzio and trombonist John Moak—are given ample room to improvise, as are Ben Medler, drummer Todd Bishop and pianist Clay Giberson (whose electric piano, on "Philly Soul Strut" and "Night Party," is a pleasure to hear).

Ben Medler wrote the sunny "River Paths," buoyant "Philly Soul Strut" and immutably rhythmic "Night Party," Michelle Medler the purposely low-key "Smoldering." As noted, the sextet gives everyone its best shot, ushering in several warm and pleasurable moments and making River Paths at least worth one's time and consideration.