Artist:     Steve Heckman

Album:     Search for Peace

Label:     Jazzed Media

Release Date:     10/14/2014

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Though Heckman’s Quintet serves up a more mainstream jazz sound than the edgier sounds I’m naturally inclined to listen to, there are several tracks on Search for Peace that keep this free jazz/hard bop kid on his toes.

Buoyed by B-3 maestro Matt Clark while bassist Marcus Shelby and drummer Akira Tana provide the muscular swing, Grant Green’s “Grantstand” percolates with a distinctly urban feel. McCoy Tyner’s contemplative namesake song allows Heckman’s deep, well rounded sax to discover its own nuance as well as pay homage to Tyner’s composition. Monk’s “Pannonica” is taken at a strolling, rolling pace, giving room for Heckman and guitarist Howard Alden to stretch their solos while a swinging, sprightly, almost Latin feel powers “Spiral,” a 1959 Coltrane composition. If you  like what you hear (and you will!) look for the quintet’s 2013 release, Born To Be Blue.

– Mike Jurkovic