Hard driving bebop saxophonist shines on his first release in years, backed by Spike Wilner and his trio.

Jesse Davis is a true bebopper, and he’s here to show that the style is alive and well. His big, soulful sound has been displayed on many records, although he has been somewhat quiet on the recording front in recent years. Live At Smalls, however, serves to remind listeners what an incredibly melodic improviser he is.

A recipient of Down Beat magazine’s 'Most Outstanding Musician’ award, Davis emerged from the cultural melting-pot of New Orleans, famed for its blues history and improvisatory jazz performances in bars. On Live At Smalls, he combines the perfect blend of blues and bebop and although he has an abundance of technique, he is not flashy – opting always for a story-telling approach to soloing.