CD REVIEWS: Gene Krupa/Second Set (Avid AMSC1134)

THIS crammed 2CD set features more small group sessions by the drummer, most featuring multi-instrumentalist Eddie Shu. To provide variety Shu is also featured on trumpet, clarinet and harmonica, but to me he sounds best on tenor saxophone. Teddy Napoleon and Bobby Scott share piano duties with Milt Hinton, Mort Herbert or John Drew on bass. Throughout Krupa shows he was just as good with a small group as a big band. avidgroup.co.uk.

John Funkhouser/Still (Jazsyzgy Records) Although this is his fourth album this seems a particularly good introduction to jazz pianist and composer (and eminent teacher) John Funkhouser. It demonstrates a wide variety of styles and moods on a mixed programme of originals and standards (My Romance, Little Rootie Tootie etc), all unified by his tightly meshed trio, with Greg Loughman and Mike Connors on bass and drums.

Guests Phil Sargent, guitar, and Aubrey Johnson’s wordless vocals also fit it beautifully. johnfunkhouser.com.

Ton Chang/Tongue and Groove (Raw Toast Records) Canadian guitarist Chang’s debut album reflects and has successfully absorbed a wide range of musical influences into a very cohesive and convincing jazz set.

His often challenging guitar blends wonderfully with Greg Ward’s alto and Jason Rigby’s tenor sax. Despite often being complex music it has a ready appeal. tomchangmusic.com.