Classic bebop was never strong on formal composition, but Duke Jordan, who died in 2006, was a rare exception. Best known as Charlie Parker’s late-40s pianist, he had a wonderful melodic flair that came out in his solos. He turned to composition later in life, and 11 of his pieces are played here by a sextet led by alto saxophonist Chris Byars. The players are all young enough to have been Jordan’s grandchildren, but together they create exactly the full, mellow sound his harmonies demand. Bass clarinettist Stefano Doglioni and Byars himself are the outstanding soloists in an excellent set.
