TRACK Four To Go

GROUP Donna Lee Saxophone Quartet

Mellow (Zivaldo 032008)

Musicians: Zdenko Ivanušić (alto sax), Andrej Henigman (alto sax), VanjaIleković (tenor sax), Aleš Suša (baritone sax). Composed by Zdenko Ivanušić.

Recorded: Zagreb, Croatia, May 11-12, 2008

DONNA LEE SAXOPHONE QUARTET: FOUR TO GO

RATING: 95/100(learn more)The Croatia-based Donna Lee Saxophone Quartet (DLSQ) was formed in 1999 by altoists Zdenko Ivanušićand Andrej Henigman, and has had the same personnel since 2001. While they have been known to playcharts of their predecessors the World Saxophone Quartet and the 29th Street Saxophone Quartet, overtime they have developed their own distinctive identity and sound.

On this follow-up to their first CD, Four Odd, it becomes apparent that baritonist Suša's role is just asimportant to the DLSQ's overall success as were those of Hamiet Bluiett and Jim Hartog, respectively, tothe aforementioned a cappella sax quartets – providing essential basslines and rhythms. Ivanušić is theDLSQ's strongest soloist and main composer, a vibrant player heard at his best on his own infectious "Fourto Go." Suša's winding bassline leads to Ivanušić's articulation of the prancing theme. A catchy vamp by thetwo altos and tenor serves as the bridge. Ivanušić's stop-and-start solo leaves space for an accompanyingline by the other saxophonists to take the forefront, as his velvety tone accentuates his intricate and livelypost-bop runs. After Ivanušić revisits the theme, with the contrapuntal backing of his bandmates, thevamp/bridge creates a perfect resolution. There is an easeful mastery at work here that simply must beheard.

Reviewer: Scott Albin

Tags: 2000s jazz · croatia · saxophone ensemble

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