Scott Feiner & Pandeiro Jazz
Accents
Zoho Records
www.zohomusic.com
By George W. Harris

This just might be the first disc I’ve ever encountered that had a band lead by a pandeiro,which is a Brazilian tambourine. Scott Feiner plays it well, and even more importantly, doesn’t dominate the record here. He knows that his instrument is to support and to guide, and he does it just right. The remaining trio of Joel Frahm/ts-ss, Freddie Bryant/g, and Joe Martin/b are spaciously swinging, as they coalesce to create fascinating takes of some jazz standards and originals. Frahm’s tenor oozes over an achingly and gorgeously drawn out “Watermelon Man,” while his soprano teams with Bryant’s strings like an oil and vinegar dressing over Romaine lettuce on the delicate and yet crisp “Soul Eyes.” Feiner’s own “Share & Share Alike” and title track are impressive in their own right, with his impressive hand work driving the team on like a border collie. Surprise delight!