Names for jazz groups are commonplace nowadays but when Oregon emerged in the early 1970s, it was all the so-and-so trio and the what's-his-name quartet; the idea that a small ensemble might not have a leader was radical. Now on their 30th recording and – a few personnel changes aside – still mining the same collective consciousness, Oregon cover the spectrum from delicate chamber music to full-throated post-bop to funky world grooves. Still at the centre of the group's sound is the interplay between guitarist Ralph Towner and multi-reed player Paul McCandless, with percussionist Mark Walker and bassist Paolino Dalla Porta, making his Oregon debut, holding more than their own on a set of (mostly Towner's) bright, crystalline melodies. camjazz.com





![The Music Quiz: Which US state completes the title of Charli XCX’s song, Magic Metal [blank]?](https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/YAXAF27B7VHRXLDOVCBXDVZ3BM.jpg?focal=541%2C297&auth=03872074efcef16e8e05ee942e55e6ed56f6c692d2d7447166019ff1a326b836&width=274&height=154)





