I enjoy jazz music and find it relaxing and a time when I can drift off into my own world.  When I listened to this CD I was amazed at the quality and the range depicted throughout the eleven songs.  These songs were recorded live at Custer’s Last Stand Festival of the Arts in Evanston, Illinois and if other bands are half as good as John Temmerman’s Quartet, I’m definitely going to attend this festival in the near future.

What I really enjoyed about this CD was the wonderful saxophone that seemed to reach out of the speakers and grab me.  Ok so the saxophone is one of my favorite instruments but when played this well, it is good for the soul!

The Songs

Plan B Downsized was written by Temmerman and showcases his ability on the saxophone.  This one definitely hooks you into listening to the rest of the CD. 
 
Sister Sadie is next and was played differently than I had heard before – not only was the sax great but the trumpet was a perfect accompaniment. When the drums come in it was just plain amazing and had me smiling.

I do have to say the next song was one of my favorites.  Everyone has heard Blue Moon but definitely not played this way.  I even replayed the song immediately after it ended because I enjoyed it so much!
 
Next up was Spooky which again was played with a different twist than I had heard before.  Have I mentioned how good John Temmerman is on the sax?  This song definitely showcases his ability and wonderful talent!  The music seeps into you and won’t let go. 

An Aging Dream is another song written by Temmerman and is amazing!  This one isn’t heavy on sax but a nice blend of several instruments each getting their own playtime and shows the talent of these musicians.

Sooner or Later is another of Temmerman’s original pieces and I have to say that John Temmerman’s ability as a songwriter is just as good as his talent as a great saxophone player.  This song flowed out of the speakers and enveloped me releasing the friction of the day and soothing me.  Soothing might not be the right word, as I was tapping my toes and thoroughly enjoying this tune but it did sooth me to the point I was smiling while listening.

Fundamental Dreamer (also another original from Temmerman) seemed to be an extension of Sooner of Later.  My euphoria continued with this song and I loved it.  These two songs were better than a long, hot bubble bath!

Norwegian Wood was an interesting choice for Temmerman and I wondered as I read the song list why he would use this song on the CD.  That question was answered as soon as I heard it.  I do have to say that I enjoyed this rendition better than when the Beatles did it. This group has a way of taking a song and making it their own.

Freedom Jazz Dance is one that makes it difficult to sit in your seat and just listen.  It was probably one of my favorites on this CD. 

Stolen Moments would be a perfect song to bring out the romantic side.  I envisioned a nice dinner for two with this song being played and love in the air.  It is definitely one song to be shared with the love of your life!

Just a Walk With Thee is the final song on this CD and again shows how much talent Temmerman has on the saxophone with the solo.  It’s amazing and a great way to end a fantastic CD.

Conclusion

I absolutely loved this CD and definitely want more John Temmerman Quartet music.  I have found myself listening to this after a rough day at work to help me unwind and it never has failed to bring a smile to my face.  My only concern is that I’m going to play it so much it will stop working (do CD’s do that?)  I can’t say enough great things about this collection of great jazz songs for everyone.  If you’ve never been a jazz fan before, this album may change your mind!

CD is available at:  John Temmerman's website
http://www.jazzobsession.com/, at http://www.cdbaby.com/, and www.amazon.com

Recommended: Yes

Great Music to Play While: Listening