Streams Of Expression

Joe Lovano can always be relied upon to switch gears from one project to another, constantly exploring new music and fresh variations of older pieces. On Streams of Expression, he contributes the five-part “Streams of Expression Suite,” a three-part “Birth of the Cool Suite” (conducted by Gunther Schuller) that uses themes from Miles Davis’ 1948-1950 Nonet, and three briefer works. Lovano utilizes several groups along the way, and there are spots for the other horn players (including tenors George Garzone and Ralph Lalama, baritonist Gary Smulyan, and especially trumpeter Tim Hagans) to be heard. Lovano is in prime form, the Miles Davis melodies are expertly updated, and although none of the new individual themes were destined to be future standards, the playing by Lovano and his sidemen is consistently creative. Another highly recommended Joe Lovano outing. – Scott Yanow