Album Review
Joel Futterman is somewhat of an enigma. Blessed with enormous talent, he has worked hard to develop his radical technique and to participate in some stellar recording sessions, yet, at least by the turn of the 21st century, he had not quite received his due. Futterman has had a hard time breaking through, perhaps due to the mostly incorrect impression that he falls in the shadows of Cecil Taylor. In fact, Futterman has forged an independent path, one that does, to be certain, incorporate some elements fashioned by Taylor and others, but one that also expresses itself individually and much less radically. While Futterman's best work has been with his longstanding association with tenor saxophonist Kidd Jordan, he has also sometimes performed successfully in small groups with lesser-known musicians. In the instant recording, Futterman leads a trio with Coltrane-influenced tenor saxophonist Ike Levin and bassist Randall Hunt in a series of seven freely improvised tracks. The three explore a variety of moods, including a stunning blues on "Melon Juice." Levin is a strong improviser, one who is a perfect match for Futterman. Together, they are capable of wild, free blowing, but they are capable of emphasizing melody. A highlight is when Futterman picks up his curved soprano sax to wrestle with Levin, as they do, for example, on the title piece, "Interview," and on "Dispatch." Bassist Randall Hunt is a bit in the background throughout, perhaps due to the mix. Those who are fans of Joel Futterman will wish to purchase this release, as will those interested in the fine improvisational skills of the unsung Ike Levin.
