Max Nagl, Otto Lechner, Bradley Jones - Flamingos (2003)

Max Nagl contributed eight of the ten compositions for this set (all but the two Charles Mingus songs) and his playing (mostly on alto) is consistently impressive, but accordionist Otto Lechner often steals honors. The uniqueness of hearing his instrument in this trio setting gives the CD a distinctive personality, and his playing on the slower pieces (including the opening "Bowling") is often haunting. Nagl purposely let the influence of Mingus be heard both in his playing (hinting in various spots at Eric Dolphy, Clifford Jordan, and Charles McPherson) and his inside/outside originals. The music often swings conventionally if hard, but there are also sound explorations (most notably on "Weird Nightmare"), some catchy melodic riffs, group improvising, and unexpected variety. Much of the music is cinematic, particularly "Flamingo," allowing listeners to devise their own scenes to this intriguing and stimulating set. It is well worth several listens.