Dutch saxophonist Tineke Postma has been one of the best of the European postboppers to make the transatlantic hop in recent years. She was taught by American sax star David Liebman, and Esperanza Spalding and Terri Lyne Carrington have played on her albums. This set not only furthers the American connection but pairs her with another former mentor, the audaciously inventive saxophonist Greg Osby.
As in all of Postma’s work, the sparing lyricism of Wayne Shorter is a pervasive presence, and the contrast between that restrained shapeliness and Osby’s more densely layered approach is a constant fascination. But so is inspired input from pianist Matt Mitchell, in a dazzling string of solos, and flawless navigation from a rhythm section comprising drummer Dan Weiss and Linda Oh, a frequent bassist for trumpeter Dave Douglas.
Unlike many expert postbop sessions devoted to the ingenuity of soloists, Sonic Halo is compositionally diverse, from the dreamy, polyphonic Sea Skies, through the zigzagging, Steve Coleman-like Facets and the film-noirish ballad Where I’m From to the loosely interpreted Body and Soul, and the cleverly boppish Pleasant Affliction. It is imaginative, accomplished contemporary jazz from an A-list group.
