Kelly Jefferson; Rituals

By now, Vancouver B.C.'s Cellar Music has established itself as a dependable, no-nonsense, high class record label. Among many things to be admired is Cellar's insistence on giving studio time to deserving new jazz talents. On what I assume is his debut CD, Jefferson's saxophone prowess and versatile compositions are heard in a riveting quartet setting featuring nine of his original compositions. Moods move from sprightly to mysterious, and often intricate and compelling. His colleagues, often providing strong support and prime solo work, include Amanda Tosoff, piano; Jon Maharaj, bass; and Norman Childs, drums. All are new names to me, but it's obvious that they are deeply embedded in the art of pure and meaningful jazz making.

Cellar Music; 2023; appx. 57 min.