Saxophone Summit

Seraphic Light is Saxophone Summit’s love letter to their sadly departed member: saxophone giant Michael Brecker. Summit’s remaining members — Joe Lovano and Dave Liebman — had the daunting task of finding a replacement for Brecker if they wanted to continue what was obviously a stimulating partnership. To that end, they sought out the son of their idol John Coltrane, Ravi, a strong player in his own right. The result is the muscular, musical push-and-shove you’d expect from such powerful individuals — no blushing violets here. Rather, from the first tune, "Transitions” by pianist Phil Markowitz, the pattern is set: well-structured, creatively arranged jazz blowing vehicles for the virtuoso improvisers. Both Liebman and Lovano are in excellent form, digging into themes with genuine fervour. And, to his credit, Ravi doesn’t get overwhelmed by his heavy company, blowing some twisting, sideways-sliding lines while powered by the gold standard of rhythm sections: bassist Cecil McBee and drummer Billy Hart. Add to the mix Michael’s surviving sibling, Randy Brecker on trumpet, and this disc is sure to delight jazz aficionados of all stripes.