Search - PJ Perry :: My Ideal

Ideal performance by top Canadian bop alto saxophonist

J. Levinson | Media, PA USA | 05/10/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Alto saxist P.J. Perry delivers a fine set of mainstream bop, featuring three of his engaging originals, four standards, and a couple of intriguing obscurities. He's ably backed by a top-notch rhythm section, including pianist Mulgrew Miller, drummer Victor Lewis, and fellow Canadian Neil Swainson on acoustic bass. Perry's refined alto tone provides most of the drama, though he allows space for all the participants to exhibit their talents. Swainson demonstrates his melodicism on the Nordic-tinged ballad "Helsingborg", while Charlie Parker's "Cheryl" features drum breaks and a piano solo in addition to Perry's Stitt-like interpretation of Bird's articulations. The finale, Cole Porter's "Easy To Love", goes from an elegant ballad intro to an upbeat bop groove that works up a sweat, regaining composure to close out the proceedings with a courtly phrased coda."