There aren't many musicians with the technical, inventive and emotional resources needed to hold the listeners' attention through extended solos. One is the old master, Sonny Rollins. Another is alto saxophonist Loescher. Each will bring you with him on his musical journey: Rollins through melodic exuberance, Loescher with emotional intensity.Loescher, a 1995 Berklee graduate, is now based in Montreal after a stay in Europe where he developed a reputation as a performer, educator,and composer. The previously reviewed CD,"Distance," was the product of his European trio.

"Shadows" builds from the high standard set for "Distance." The trio's instrumentation is unchanged (alto,bass,drums) and their cohesiveness is undiminished. Loescher's bandmates now include two world class Canadian musicians, drummer Michel Lambert and bassist Frédéric Alarie. Lambert,who comes from a long line of classical artists, paints and also composes . His subtle and sympathetic percussion on this session is workshop material for aspiring drummers. Bassist Alarie is equally colorful and creative.

In this CD, recorded live at Cigare du Pharaon in Montreal during October 2001, the group explores all the possibilities of two interesting Loescher compositions, Gary Mc Farland's "Gary's Waltz" and several standards from the great American songbook ( Days of Wine and Roses, Alone Together, My Funny Valentine,All the Things You Are. When Sunny Gets Blue.) You'll be captivated throughout by the energy and innovation of these three artists. On the other hand, Loescher's opening chorus on "When Sunny Gets Blue" is a highlight. It shows how straight melody can be illuminated by expression and feeling.

This is really a trio, not a reed player plus rhythm. To Loescher's credit, and as I've said before, the group exhibits the rapport of the Evans-Motian-LaFaro threesome of long ago. Another superior release by Loescher.