This is a group that looks to the past for inspiration but gives its bop and post-bop influences a modern, individual stamp. Lucian Ban and Alex Harding previously recorded as a duo under the CIMP imprimatur on Somethin’ Holy, and Harding has incorporated Ban’s compositions there and elsewhere. The present recording is a debut for this quintet, which is a better vehicle than the duo for Ban’s winding, lightly accentuated, often complicated lines . . . Lucian Ban’s deft hands, along with the sinewy fingers of bassist Chris Dahlgren and the skillful contributions of drummer Damion Reid, serve as both as a catalyst to the horns and as a primary counterforce.
Sign up for Lucian Ban concert & new releases
