FLICKER
By The Chad Makela Quartet
Released
REVIEW
Although the instrumentation of baritonist Chad Makela's pianoless quartet may lead one to think of Gerry Mulligan, the music performed by these modern musicians is closer to that of Ornette Coleman. The "free bop" music sometimes uses chord changes, but the improvisations are never tied strictly to bebop or a predictable running of changes. The interplay between the four players is consistently impressive. Makela shows that he is one of the underrated greats of his instrument, trumpeter Brad Turner reminds one that he should never be overlooked, and bassist Paul Rushka and drummer Jesse Cahill constantly inspire the lead voices. Performing four Makela songs, one original by Turner, Joe Lovano's "Uprising," and the standard "My Ideal," the Chad Makela Quartet plays state-of-the-art modern jazz with fire, creativity, and spirit. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
