Inspiration

Alto saxophonist George Robert shines during this 1999 concert in Lausanne, Switzerland, with the exemplary rhythm section of Kenny Barron, Rufus Reid, and Kenny Washington accompanying him. Six of the eight songs are originals by the leader, written especially for this quartet. "Blues for C.T." is dedicated to trumpeter and flügelhornist Clark Terry, who Robert added as a special guest on previous recordings (including the outstanding Live at Q4); this joyful blues will put a smile on any jazz fan's face. The pretty ballad "Mom's Song" honors Robert's mother, who had passed away in 1997. There are also enjoyable tributes by Robert to Cannonball Adderley ("Cannonization") and Dexter Gordon ("Dexter") that pay homage by capturing the spirit of each musician rather than mimicking their respective styles. Robert also honors Kenny Barron (who was very likely the most recorded jazz pianist of the 1990s, as one listen to this CD helps to explain why) with "My Man Kenny," the type of driving post-bop chart in which the pianist particularly excels. Their duo version of the great standard "You Don't Know What Love Is" provides a virtual master class to aspiring young jazz musicians about playing with open ears and getting the most out of a timeless melody. Warmly recommended, as are all of George Robert's CDs.