Two Blocks From The Edge

Michael Brecker is at the top of his game on TWO BLOCKS FROM THE EDGE. His assembled quintet is under continuous direction from their leader with sometimes no more than a subtle inflection from his powerful horn. Displaying his legendary freight train ('Trane?) chops and razor sharp tone is natural for Brecker, but it's his strength as a bandleader that shines through on this disc. Even with distinguished cohorts like Joey Calderazzo (piano), James Genus (bass), Jeff "Tain" Watts (drums) and Don Alias (percussion) on board, it is clear that Brecker is steering the boat. His trademark muscular style and quirky twists and turns permeate the proceedings.
Some creative composition is evident, with Brecker and Calderazzo taking the majority of the writing credits. A strong New Orleans influence appears as "Madame Toulouse" and "Delta City Blues" bookend the session. The prerequisite Latin number, Calderazzo's spicy "El Nino", allows Alias to play one-man percussion ensemble. The gears shift with the subtle ballad "Cat's Cradle", as Brecker and Calderazzo show their introspective sides. Other highlights include Watts' bopping "The Impaler", and the title track, which was inspired by Brecker's late friend Don Grolnick.|