Cary DeNigris, Between The Lines

Ex-Chico Hamilton Quartet sideman Cary DeNigris cuts his teeth as leader with Between The Lines. DeNigris' sound is somewhere between Alan Holdsworth and a "Free Spirits" John McLaughlin, but he has a personal edge and a basket of licks that distinguishes his style. Strong Holdsworthian composition and shizoid phrasing (take the opening track that deals out regular post-bebop lines and tempered melodic vamps until a blazing solo errupts towards the end) make this high quality album an eclectic and choppy ride. Bassist Paul Ramsey and drummer Drori Mondlak keep the wheels moving and provide their own touches of brilliance along the way. The third track, First Dance, is my favourite, starting with a jaunty lick that brings 1969/70 JM into the 21st century, followed by a beautiful moment where drum and bass fall back to allow a viperous scattering from the guitar; a piercing haughty blues.