Scott Colley - Subliminal... (1998)

Scott Colley's writing reaches new heights on this very fine record. Joined by Chris Potter on tenor sax and bass clarinet, Bill Carrothers on piano, and Bill Stewart on drums, the bassist delivers some of his most memorable compositions to date. "The End and the Beginning," an uncommonly serene ballad, stands out among the others. But "Out of the Void" is also excellent, as are the hip title track and the veiled Cole Porter salute "Is What It Is." (Carrothers lays out on these latter two.) Potter and Stewart also contribute one composition each, and the quartet runs down Charlie Parker's classic blowing vehicle "Segment," with the drums soloing first -- not something you hear every day. A superb, well-rounded, cohesive effort. ~ David R.Adler

Personnel: Scott Colley (bass); Chris Potter (tenor saxophone, bass clarinet); Bill Carrothers (piano); Bill Stewart (drums).