Sangam

Sangam

An unlikely star on the '60s rock scene who played "psychedlic jazz" on bills with Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead before sitting out most of the '70s and early '80s to meditate and escape commercial pressures, saxophonist Charles Lloyd has in his "comeback" phase established himself as a far deeper and more interesting player. His 11th album for ECM, and his first live one for the label, <i>Sangam</i> introduces his new trio, featuring Indian tabla ace Zakir Hussain (known for his work with Shakti) and acclaimed young jazz drummer Eric Harland (heard on Lloyd's previous CD, <i>Jumping the Creek</i>). A kind of followup to <i>Which Way is East</i> (2004), Lloyd's epic series of duets with his dear, soon-to-depart friend, drummer Billy Higgins, <i>Sangam</i> roots the leader's flowing and soaring spiritual investigations in a vibrant and varied rhythmic attack. True to the album title (Hindi for confluence or union), the band feeds off each other exceptionally well, especially considering this concert in Santa Barbara was their first together. Lloyd has never had the most imposing sound on tenor, but pushed by his partners, he works up moments of Coltrane-like intensity and drive. With his expansive palette--he also plays alto sax, flutes and tarogato--he avoids the slow, monochromatic mood-making of many of his '90s efforts. <i>--Lloyd Sachs</i>