Romus, Rent Jazz On The Line/Chico Freeman – “Thundershine ” – [Edgetone Records]

Edgetone Records founder Rent Romus formed ???Jazz on the Line??? while a student at UC Santa Cruz in the 1980???s, and they still work together from time to time. This album was recorded live at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz in October 1992 and was recently re-mastered and released (2008). Playing with sax great Chico Freeman fulfilled a longtime dream for Romus.

Driving, straight ahead jazz with hints of funk and Latin from this tight ensemble of fine players. Listen for Romus on baritone sax (track 5) and flute (track 3).

Given the emphasis on the highly experimental at Edgetone Records, this CD surprised me. Excellent, recommended!