Kontomichalis, George
Challenge, 2025, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 31.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 81
O’s Notes: First Flight is the debut recording for alto saxophonist, composer George Kontomichalis, and it’s a winner! He demonstrates his prowess in many styles, from hard bop to warm ballads. His band is strong with bassist Andreas Lang, pianist Tinto Derado, and Sebastian Merck on drums. Jonathan Enders adds tenor sax on four selections and vocalist Sonya Sytnyk softens the attack on “Means Something To Me” including a fine solo by Lang. We also enjoyed “Rudy Lopez Opening” and the title track.
Publicist: Vivo Musique
