Kunsu Shim

Curtis Lundy only occasionally steps into the studio to lead his own record date, but the bassist never disappoints. The leader wrote several imaginative original works, including the captivating ballad "Ovieda." There are also rewarding tracks composed by veteran pianist John Hicks, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, tenor saxophonist Mark Shim, and Anthony Wonsey (who plays piano on all but three numbers); the drummer is the seasoned Billy Hart. Shim's brooding opener, "Snake Eyes," is a hypnotic charmer that stimulates the group. Nelson's "Shape Shifting" is aptly named, as it keeps changing choruses in a brisk setting. The obvious interaction among the participants in their interpretations of this mostly new material makes this CD one that stands up very well to repeated hearings.

Pianist Luis Perdomo's presence is marked by attributes that include lyricism, depth and adaptability. The onetime member of saxophonist Ravi Coltrane's quartet has worked on many releases for artists like trombonist Steve Turre and saxophonist Miguel Zenón. His visibility is coming more into focus with The Infancia Project, which the New York-based pianist avoided making for many years over concerns of being typecast as "just another" Latin jazz musician.