Jim Mullen Quartet: For Heaven’s Sake (STUCD 24012)

Renowned UK jazz guitarist Jim Mullen collaborates with Danish musicians Jan Harbeck (tenor sax) and Kristian Leth (drums), along with American organist Ben Paterson, to present an hour-long album featuring standards and original compositions. This recording took place in Copenhagen on October 14 and 15, 2023, during a quartet tour in Denmark.

Mullen’s unique playing style, reminiscent of his idol Wes Montgomery, involves using his thumb instead of a pick, a technique developed due to his left-handedness while playing right-handed. His rapid comping is particularly impressive.

Bretton and Edwards’ title track exemplifies the album’s high quality, characterized by a straightforward jazz approach. The sultry tenor saxophone shines in the moody “Angel Eyes,” while Paterson’s dynamic Hammond B3 work leads the groove-heavy “This Here,” enhanced by Leth’s exceptional drumming. Mullen’s original piece “Medication,” inspired by Jobim’s “Meditation,” transforms into an upbeat bop that showcases the group’s synergy.

The bluesy ballad “Stairway to the Stars” contrasts with a surprisingly funky rendition of “Swanee River,” reminiscent of the Morrissey-Mullen band. The album closes with Ellington’s “Caravan,” highlighting Mullen’s octave technique and agile single-note solos, making this a captivating listen.

Nels Cline: Consentrik Quartet (Blue Note 7560208)

Nels Cline’s new quartet debuts with an album available on double vinyl, CD, and digital download. Known as the guitarist for indie rock band Wilco, Cline’s work spans contemporary jazz and avant-garde, dating back to his 1981 debut “Elegies” with bassist Eric von Essen.

The album opens with “The Returning Angel,” a thoughtfully constructed piece led by Ingrid Laubrock’s tenor sax, followed by Cline’s fluid guitar lines. “Slipping Into Something” features resonant acoustic bass from Chris Lightcap, juxtaposed with soaring guitar melodies.

Alongside Laubrock and Lightcap, drummer Tom Rainey completes the quartet. The interplay between Cline and Laubrock is particularly striking in “House of Steam,” while “Inner Wall” builds to an intense crescendo with Rainey’s dynamic drumming. The nearly 10-minute “Satomi” features engaging improvisation between Cline and Laubrock, with a strong, memorable theme. The rock-influenced “The Bag” and the Ornette-like “Question Marks (The Spot)” showcase the quartet’s versatility, making this a significant release for Cline.

Dreamweavers: Woven In Time (Perdido DOR 2501)

“Woven In Time” is a collaborative effort by guitarist Chris Allard and Mike Trim. Allard, a former NYJO member, has worked with artists like Jacqui Dankworth, while Trim has a 45-year career composing for various media. The duo is joined by Jim Watson (piano), Dudley Phillips (bass), and Nick Smalley (drums).

The album features a blend of laid-back moods and intricately crafted pieces, with the titular track exemplifying this mix. Allard primarily plays electric guitar, while Trim focuses on acoustic guitar, adding a mandocello on “Migration.” Allard’s “Bossa Para Rose” evokes Jobim’s bossa novas, and the album concludes with the infectious groove of “Skyline Drive,” highlighting Allard’s soaring guitar work.

Stian Larsen, Colin Webster, Ruth Goller, Andrew Lisle: Temple Of Muses (Relative Pitch RPR1193)

Recorded in Forest Hill, London, “Temple Of Muses” features Norwegian guitarist Stian Larsen with saxophonist Colin Webster and drummer Andrew Lisle, alongside bassist Ruth Goller. This collaboration draws from their previous recording “Zeal And Perseverance.”

The album is characterized by free improvisation, reminiscent of Peter Brötzmann’s intense style. The 20-minute title track features frenetic saxophone, aggressive guitar, and dynamic drumming, culminating in a powerful, pulsating crescendo. Although challenging, the music is compelling and engaging.