Belmondo Quintet - For All Friends (2021)

The Belmondo brothers, trumpeter Stephane and saxophonist Lionel, proved to be two of the more creative and talented French jazz musicians of the 1990s. Joined by pianist Henri Florens, bassist Thomas Bramerie, and drummer Jean-Pierre Arnaud, the siblings perform nine group originals and "Darn That Dream." The music is primarily post-bop, swinging but open to more modern influences. Both of the Belmondos have appealing and strong sounds in addition to fertile improvising skills, and they really dig into the originals. Jazz listeners wanting to explore some lesser-known but talented musicians would be well advised to check out this fine release. ~ Scott Yanow