Virginia Mayhew - Sandan Shuffle (2005)

Virginia Mayhew first drew critical praise as a part of the Diva big band reed section. Her fourth CD since going out on her own features the tenor saxophonist leading a potent quartet with guitarist Kenny Wessel, bassist Harvie S, and drummer Victor Jones, a band that interacts beautifully throughout the session. In celebration of her earning a third-degree black belt (or sandan) in karate, she named the funky opener "Sandan Shuffle." It's a slightly off-kilter piece with some superb blowing by the leader. Mayhew switches to soprano sax for the upbeat "Spring Is Not Here," creating a playful mood that contrasts with its title. Harvie S contributed the eerie "Jazz-Like" and the melancholy "Now I Know." Her interpretations of standards and jazz classics also merit strong praise. Mayhew updates the old warhorse "Let's Fall in Love" with a catchy Caribbean flavor that incorporates several styles. She is back on soprano sax for her emotional reworking of "I Get Along Without You Very Well." The funky street beat of Thelonious Monk's "In Walked Bud" also breaks new ground. To top it off, Mayhew's cover photo with her karate teacher is a refreshing change from typical packaging for jazz CDs. Highly recommended.

Review by Ken Dryden