Karen Sharp - Spirit (2011)

Karen Sharp makes her debut on Trio Records with a stellar band of Nikki Iles on piano, Dave Green on bass, and Steve Brown on drums demonstrating her maturity as one of the foremost saxophonists in the country. 'Spirit' features two original compositions from Karen and Nikki Iles, plus numbers by Kenny Wheeler, Kurt Weill, Thelonius Monk and Bill Evans.

With elements of Stan Getz and the late Ronnie Scott in her tenor playing, Karen displays a refreshing departure from the current common influences on the saxophone scene and has developed very much her own sound and approach. The combination of the tasteful touch of Nikki Iles and the sensitivity and experience of Dave Green wrapped by Steve Brown's tightly swinging drums proves the perfect foil for Karen's playing bringing her sound in sharp focus. For anyone interested in swinging, intelligent straight ahead jazz played with sensitivity and commitment this album cannot be recommended more highly.

Personnel: Karen Sharp (tenor and baritone saxophone), Nikki Iles (piano), Dave Green (bass, Steve Brown (drums)