JERSEY JAZZ

March/April Edition

by Joe Lang

Tenor saxophonists JEFF RUPERT and GEORGE GARZONE have hooked up with pianist Richard Drexler, bassist Jeremy Allen and drummer Marty Morell for a dynamic new album, The Ripple (Rupe Media – 13020).  According to Rupert’s liner notes, the title alludes to the influence that Lester Young has had on jazz players who followed him.  The overt Young influence is more apparent in the playing of Rupert than Garzone, who has a somewhat harder edge to his sound.  They fit nicely into the tradition of two tenor teams, assaying a dozen tunes, five standards, three Rupert originals and four jazz tunes.  Both Rupert and Garzone are interesting and creative soloists.  The rhythm section is superbly supportive, with Drexler supplying satisfying solo interludes.  Tenor sax fans should put The Ripple on their wish list.  (store.cdbaby.com)