Shot Through With Beauty

Like minds converge on Shot Through With Beauty, a quartet release co-led by guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Michael Zilber, two stalwarts of West Coast progressive jazz. Joined by bassist John Shifflett and drummer Jason Lewis, who each contribute a composition to the session, the group achieves collaborative serenity through ten tracks of original material and modern-jazz gems from the likes of Kenny Wheeler and Scofield.

Zilber swings hard with a larger-than-life tone on Wheeler's "Kayak," harkening the free flowing spirit of Joe Henderson. Scofield's "Wabash III" is done with a New Orleans style groove, similar to the original. Here, Stowell pays homage to his fellow guitarist by digging in deep with soulful, flowing lines enhanced by hip effects. Saxophone and guitar mesh together with unique textures on Zilber's "Cold Rain Warm Heart" and the quirky duet "Lost and Found," with hints of something standard.

Shifflett's bass aptly introduces Stowell's pensive title track, a contemporary piece that flowers with patience and restraint, traits observed throughout this exquisite recording.