Product Review

Kenny Werner assembles a new band, borne out of his desire to extend his reach and play alongside path-finding instrumentalists. Guitarist Lionel Loueke and altoist Miguel Zenon are two such individuals. Once coupled with drummer Ferenc Nemeth and Danish saxophonist Benjamin Koppel, a true COALITION emerged. Werner's singular sensibilities may have initiated the group as his own, yet COALITION proves itself a rare manifesto on collaborative interplay.

This studio project - Werner's sixth recording for the Half Note label - reinforces his reputation as a conceptualizer and 'effortless master' without peer.