Jamie Baum Septet

Solace

(Sunnyside)

The flute has assumed many personalities in jazz. But seldom, if ever, has a straight-on classical approach been applied as forward-leaning as that of Jamie Baum. Baum is the flutist in several groups, including the co-op quartet Timepiece and her critically acclaimed New York septet. The latter formed in 1999 for the purpose of exploring Baum’s wonderfully individual compositions. Part of her mission is to utilize the flute and alto flute in a front-and-center role, more than has been traditional in larger jazz ensembles. But really, very little of Baum’s music falls under the category of “traditional,” at least in the post-bop sense of the word.

While the septet can obviously swing – it does so in grand fashion, especially while backing soloists throughout this CD – the general feeling is that much of Baum’s music derives from her years as a classically trained musician. She especially hones in on the more avant-garde, iconoclastic music of such luminaries as Charles Ives.

In fact, Ives is well-represented here via Baum’s four-part “Ives Suite.” Her penchant for colloquial musical quotations, penetrating dissonances, polytonal harmonies and poly-meter conceptions are heard throughout the 31-minute tour de force. Despite the titan influence, the “Ives Suite” is more an endearing tribute to a composer who was well ahead of his time than a mere rehash.

Aggressive soloing from Baum, trumpeter Ralph Alessi, French horn player Vincent Chancey, saxophonist Douglas Yates and pianist George Colligan provides impressive highlights throughout these 10 lush tracks. But at the heart of the matter is Baum’s impassioned, personally orchestrated ensemble sound.

- James Rozzi