N.Y. Capers & Quirks

by Steven Loewy Some of Steve Lacy's best work comes from his trios. Somehow, he seems most free and confident in this format, curiously more so than in his rare duo or more popular solo outings. Of course, in this instance, it does not hurt for Lacy to be paired with drummer Dennis Charles and bassist Ronnie Boykins, each of whom seems perfectly attuned to the saxophonist's approach. Charles and Lacy go back to the 1950s together, when they played with Cecil Taylor and Gil Evans together. For this recording, Lacy is highly focused, his improvisations taking on a more syncopated and aggressive flavor than usual. Charles and Boykins kick hard, and the results are exemplary. The unusual choice of tunes (all composed by Lacy) includes "Quirks," "Bud's Brother," "Capers," "We Don't," and "Kitty Malone."