The Stryker / Slagle Band - Latest Outlook (2007)

The Stryker-Slagle Band, a pianoless quartet co-led by guitarist Dave Stryker and altoist Steve Slagle, features top-notch musicianship, logical yet unpredictable solos, close communication between the four players (who include bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Billy Hart) and an appealing group sound. What makes Latest Outlook and the band in general something special is the high quality of the original compositions. Each song has its own personality and surprises, often being episodic. The post-bop music, which welcomes guest tenor-saxophonist Joe Lovano to "Bird Flew" (based on Charlie Parker's "Confirmation") and a tribute to the late pianist John Hicks called "Dear Mr. Hicks," is consistently colorful. Whether it be an eccentric reworking of "Just in Time" as "In Just Time," or such songs as "Knew Hold" and "Turning Point," there are no slow moments throughout this studio set. Several of the numbers deserve to become standards in the future. Latest Outlook is a fine example of early 21st century jazz. Highly recommended. © Scott Yanow