On Broadway, Vol. 3

by Scott Yanow Drummer Paul Motian leads an intriguing all-star quintet on this gem of a disc. Motian and his regular trio of the time (with tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano and guitarist Bill Frisell) are joined by bassist Charlie Haden and altoist Lee Konitz (who doubles on soprano) for unusual versions of ten standards. Frisell's atmospheric and spacy guitar playing sets the mood for such tunes as "How Deep Is the Ocean," "Just One of Those Things," "Tico Tico," and "The Way You Look Tonight." While Konitz adds a straight-ahead element to the music, his playing is fairly explorative and he interacts well with Lovano. The performances are logical yet unpredictable, like the very best jazz. Highly recommended.