Affinity

Comprised of soprano saxophonist Joe Rosenberg (the quartet's leader), tenor saxophonist Rob Sudduth, bassist Michael Silverman (who succeeded Richard Saunders), and drummer Bobby Lurie, Affinity has recorded several very interesting sets for the Music & Arts label. In 1993, the versatile group (based in Northern California) interpreted works by such diverse jazz masters as Lee Morgan, Lee Konitz, Ornette Coleman, and Anthony Braxton on their first recording (Plays Nine Modern Jazz Classics). Later sets included tributes to Coleman (with guest Dewey Redman) and Eric Dolphy (using Buddy Collette as a fifth member). Ranging from bebop to free bop, Affinity has been one of the more stimulating (if underrated) groups of the mid- to late '90s. ~ Scott Yanow