Believe In Spring

The third trio meeting of saxophonist Hans Ulrik with electric bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Jonas Johansen is a diverse outing featuring fresh interpretations of standards, originals, and at least one obscurity. The lack of a piano gives "I'll Remember April" a lighter sound, as the rhythm section provides plenty of steam for Ulrik's robust tenor sax. Pianist Bobo Stenson is added on a few tracks, including a heartfelt "Soul Eyes," while guitarist Ulf Wakenius (who gained international exposure touring with Oscar Peterson) guests elsewhere, including an explosive post-bop treatment of "Get Happy" and a shimmering "O Que Sera." The originals include Ulrik's lush ballad "August 1972" and his bittersweet "Prelude" (the latter played on soprano), which segues into a gorgeous performance of Thad Jones' "A Child Is Born." Swallow is the initial soloist in a revisit of his best-known work, "Falling Grace," a piece that has stood the test of time well. Ulrik switches to soprano sax for a peppy rendition of "Carolina Moon" (an oldie recorded by Thelonious Monk early in his career, one of just a few jazz musicians who have waxed this old chestnut), though the piece showcases Johansen and Swallow at length.