John Lindberg Ensemble - Bounce (1997/2024)

Even though bassist John Lindberg is the leader of this set and contributed all seven compositions (along with presumably the frameworks), the main star of the outing is trumpeter Dave Douglas. Douglas both extends the hard bop/post-bop tradition and plays quite free in spots. The date opens with Lindberg and Douglas exploring "Firewood Duet," drummer Ed Thigpen (who sounds right at home in this adventurous setting) makes the group a trio on "The Terrace," and then Larry Ochs (mostly on tenor) makes the group a quartet on half of the remaining selections. Whether sounding fairly free (although well-planned) or throughly composed, this is a consistently fascinating set. Lindberg's colorful writing and Douglas' versatile solos make Bounce a highly recommended acquisition for open-minded jazz listeners. © Scott Yanow