Joe Lovano

One of the most celebrated saxophonists of his generation, Joe Lovano is a highly expressive improviser whose lithe, swinging style incorporates traditional bop influences with modal and free devices. A Cleveland native, Lovano first came to prominence in the early '90s, and issued a handful of highly regarded albums for Blue Note, including 1993's Universal Language, 1996's Celebrating Sinatra, and 2000's 52nd Street Themes, the latter of which took home a Grammy Award. He has remained at the forefront of post-bop jazz, ably paying homage to his idols (2011's Charlie Parker-inspired Bird Songs), recording with like-minded contemporaries (trumpeter Dave Douglas, on 2018's Sound Prints: Scandal), and continuing to make forays into the avant-garde (2021's Trio Tapestry: Garden of Expression). ~ Matt Collar