John Klemmer Finesse/Magnificent Madness CD

Wounded Bird repackages two of saxophonist John Klemmer's 1980s titles on Warner in reverse order here. Finesse, issued in 1983, features Klemmer's saxophone and his trademark echoplex (debuted so wonderfully on 1978's Cry (Solo Saxophone 1)). Finesse was released in 1983 and places the saxophonist in the company of bassist Bob Magnusson, keyboardist Russell Ferrante, drummer Ron McCurdy, and percussionist Steve Forman. This is pop-jazz with real style and emotion in the light airy grooves. Check the title track with its sensual, sweet lyricism, or the sheer crystalline beauty of "Heart." This is not a blowing date, but Klemmer's lyricism and commitment to his material is complete, and the soul in his playing shines through. The band is unobtrusive, but in the pocket. The relaxed open feel of the proceedings is refreshing considering some of the material out there at the time. Magnificent Madness (1980) doesn't fare quite so well. There are a host of lead and backing vocalists here, including Danny O'Keefe who co-wrote "Lifesong" and "We Couldn't Start Over," the set's two best cuts, and Bill Thedford, who sings the title track. There are also covers of Isaac Hayes' "Don't Take Your Love Away," which is faster and more groove-conscious than the original, and a strange, Latin-tinged read of Michael Jackson's "I Can't Help It," and "Déjà Vu," which was a hit for Dionne Warwick. Klemmer has some heavyweight sidemen in his band on this outing, including guitarist John Tropea, drummer Harvey Mason, and pianists Dave Grusin, and Victor Feldman. It works on the level of jazzy pop, but not the other way around. Still Klemmer's own playing is beautiful; it's the production sheen and the choice of so many covers that mar the album's overall grace -- though it is elegant.. Overall, putting Magnificent Madness at the back half of the disc is a blessing, given the aesthetic superiority of Finesse. For the price it's a good purchase and the only way either recording can be found in the United States on CD. ~ Thom Jurek

2 LPs on 1 CD: FINESSE (1980)/MAGNIFICENT MADNESS (1983).

Personnel: John Klemmer (tenor saxophone); Russell Ferrante (keyboards); Roy McCurdy (drums); Steve Forman (percussion).