JAZZ REVIEW : Trumpeter Harrell Provides Rich Improvisation at Catalina

Trumpeter Tom Harrell once said that he sees himself as the vehicle for the music he plays, rather than its creator. His opening night performance at Catalina Bar & Grill on Tuesday was a powerful visual illustration of his feelings.

Working with a five-piece unit, Harrell was a stoic, almost statue-like figure. Between his choruses, he stood erect, head hung low, arms at his side, his face devoid of expression. But when he raised his instrument (fluegelhorn, for most of the set), the music poured forth with astonishing richness and complexity.

In solo after solo in the largely original collection of tunes, Harrell reached for the outer limits of the harmonies, pushing his technique, not in the service of virtuosity alone, but toward an ever more expansive sequence of variations. It was jazz improvisation at its finest.

Although Harrell’s group included four excellent players, their ensemble interaction, especially between drummer Billy Hart and bassist Larry Grenadier, left something to be desired. Pianist Donald Brown contributed first-rate, McCoy Tyner-inspired solos, and tenor saxophonist Don Braden provided a strong front-line balance.

But the object of attention was clearly Harrell. Fascinating to watch, even more fascinating to hear, he is one of the most remarkable performers on the contemporary jazz scene.

* Tom Harrell at Catalina Bar & Grill, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood. (213) 466-2210. $12 cover; $15 on Friday and Saturday, with two-drink minimum. Harrell plays two sets each night, at 9 and 11, through Sunday.