A Cexton Sampler

Among the better releases from the growing Cexton catalogue are:

JOHN ANELLO JR.

“For a Dancer”

“Jackson Street Beat”

Light, melodic pop jazz by “Mr. Relentless” himself, who turns out to be a surprisingly gentle performer. Anello’s sprightly melodies dominate both recordings, along with a few strong passages from John Anello Sr.’s alto saxophone and flute.

SCOTT KREITZER

“Kick ‘N Off”

Tenor saxophonist Kreitzer plays his instrument with a brisk majestic authority rarely heard in younger players (he is 23). His admiration of Sonny Rollins is most notably apparent during a tour de force romp through “Airegin.” A strong rhythm section of Dave Samuels on vibes, Marc Cohen on piano, Harvie Swartz on bass and Bill Stewart on drums provides sturdy support, but the addition of a string section on several tracks is an unnecessary distraction from the otherwise strong jazz proceedings.

BIG WORLD

“Devotion”

A fascinating recording from a trio--pianist Rick Helzer, flutist/saxist Bill Plake and percussionist Jeanette Wrate--that ranges from avant-garde to off-the-wall hard bop. Their performance of Ornette Coleman’s “Lonely Woman” perfectly captures the song’s essence of timeworn sadness. The only thing missing is the resonant undercurrent of a strong bass line (Charlie Haden would sound terrific with this group).

LOREN PICKFORD

“Song For A Blue Planet”

Despite the New Age-sounding title, alto saxophonist Pickford’s album is pure mainstream jazz. Accompanied by a strong supporting cast that includes George Roessler on guitar, George Cables on piano, John Heard on bass and Billy Higgins on drums, Pickford applies his warm-toned instrument to a set of golden standards (“Skylark”; “Alone Together”) and originals.

CHIZ HARRIS

“Confirmation”

A straight-ahead blowing session, recorded “live” in the studio with an audience. Drummer Harris, a longtime Orange County jazz figure, leads a group that includes saxophonist Jay Migliori, pianist Joe Lettieri and bassist Isla Eckinger. Guest trumpeter-fluegelhornist Conte Candoli provides added spice to steaming, be-bop brew.

Other current Cexton releases include: “Leap of Faith” from Rob Silvan and the eclectic vocal scat singing of Fine Line; “Spirit of Light,” a pop-jazz collection from a group called Axiom; and “This Was Meant To Be,” featuring the original songs of singer Barbara Reed. Scheduled for release in the next few months are albums from trombonist Mike Fahn and guitarist Robert Conti.