The Tnek Jazz Quintet is led by bassist Kent (read his name backwards) Miller, and it was his idea to record an album of songs by bass player Sam Jones. Jones died some 40 years ago but is remembered by many musicians due to the impact he had on the jazz scene, with his playing, his recordings, and his compositions. He started his career with Tiny Bradshaw, before working with a who’s who of jazz including Bill Evans, Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, and Thelonious Monk among others, but it is with Cannonball Adderley that he had most impact. It was during this time that he composed the jazz standards “Del Sasser” and “Unit 7”, both of which are performed here.

Given that six of the seven songs on this album were written by a bass player of some renown, it takes a lot for another bassist to say they want to do this, and it shows the confidence Kent had not only in his own ability but also in those in the band. Drummer Greg Holloway locks in with Miller to provide the foundation, pianist Darius Scott sits in the middle to allow Antonio Parker (alto sax) and Benny Russell (tenor and soprano sax) to take the melodic lead. This does not feel like an album which has been recorded well into the 21st century, but is one which belongs firmly in the Sixties, where musicianship is expected and never taken for granted, yet those doing the playing often do so in an incredibly understated manner. This is jazz to relax into, never strident, but always carrying the listener on the way, letting them get firmly into the groove. It is relaxing music, something to be savoured at night with a glass of rich red wine to hand, playing this in the dark and just letting the music take you where it will. Sublime.

Rating: 8/10

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Track list:
1. Unit 7
2. Bittersuite
3. Some More of Dat
4. Lillie
5. O.P.
6. Del Sasser
7. Tragic Magic

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Links:
https://www.tnekjazz.com/