Allen, Harry
Challenge, 2009, CD
Instrument: Saxophone
Issue: 16.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Swing
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: This is a fine follow-up to Harry’s last outing, Hits by Brits (5/4). That’s a tough act to follow but he is close! There are eleven standards that really swing. Allen is working his sax to perfection and is not alone with pianist Rossano Sportiello, Joel Forbes (b) and drummer Chuck Riggs each providing more than ample support. Guest trombonist John Allred trades leads with Harry on six tracks adding even more dimension. They open with the upbeat groove of “Puttin’ On The Ritz” and they quickly balance it with Allen soothing us on “Harlem Nocturne”. Sportiello sets the ragtime mood for “Down in the Depths on the 90th Floor” but it is Allen’s command of the melodies that make this session special. He plays with passion on the ballads and a spirited bounce on the up-tempo tunes that captures the listener and keeps them engaged!
Publicist: Braithwaite & Katz
