JAZZ REVIEW : Dynamic Sax Work From Tenorman Walt Weiskopf

New York City-based tenor saxophonist Walt Weiskopf is one of the many younger jazz veterans who are solid artists but don’t attract much attention.

Weiskopf, 36, deserves better. Making his L.A. club debut with a sextet Tuesday at the Club Brasserie, the saxman--who has played with Buddy Rich and Toshiko Akiyoshi--presented a dynamic show that drew a scant audience. While Weiskopf isn’t always easy on the ears, his music was replete with sumptuous moments that ranged from the exhilarating to the sublime.

During his first set, Weiskopf offered six compelling originals, several from his recent album, “Simplicity.” The selections included “Jay Walking,” a reeling, spinning line based on Dizzy Gillespie’s “Con Alma,” and “Brazilia,” on which Weiskopf’s melody parts were echoed by trombonist Matt Finders and altoist Brian Scanlon, creating a lush, layered effect.

Weiskopf played such fast, complex lines that he often seemed to be having a musical conversation with himself. Scanlon employed a sandpapery tone to enhance his be-bop-based fluidity. Finders’ sound was warm at the center, crackling at the edges and pianist Bill Cunliffe dazzled with stark chords and fleet melodies. Bassist Dave Carpenter and drummer Dick Weller were first-class rhythm section mates.