Ralph Alessi: Baida

Trumpeter Ralph Alessi's debut for ECM brings together four masters of the New York scene on a set of original compositions that offer plenty of room to showcase their creativity. Pianist Jason Moran displays a sweeping harmonic palette that embraces past, present and future. Drummer Nasheet Waits (a regular in Moran's own group) purveys what amounts to a whole new time feel, somewhere between groove and rubato. And bassist Drew Gress combines the solidity of a vastly experienced anchor man with the courage to cut the music loose when called upon. With Alessi's imaginative writing for the ensemble and virtuoso trumpet playing that has made him one of the most in-demand side men in US jazz, this is a dream team recording representing a highwater mark of the current American mainstream. ralphalessi.com