A dazzling pinkish dusk settles over the river and the Brisbane Jazz Club lights up against the skyline. A performance of soft funk-jazz by the Martha Baartz Quintet (sans vocalist, Leigh Carriage) with a new album from a group that goes right to the borders of jazz world. Dig it.

A master of performance, saxophonist Martha Baartz co-led the Baartz Freeman Sextet, also performing with many awesome Australian and international artists.

Martha et al demonstrate great improvisational expression which, cast along with real dynamic and tonal impact, follows a traditional but meandering line. Martha arranges a standard by a conventional feel, then trims and sets to the solo with brief intensity rarely found in the not-so-concise wind fraternity.

The solos were diverse and surprising as the influence of other styles came into play. Loose and awesome free-work from Steve Russell on keys, with boisterous and powerful backline from double bassist Thierry Fossemalle and drummer Dave Sanders.

The intimate Brisbane Jazz Club room lent a fine warmth, as Martha invoked other times and places in life; shadows passed and the heart of music. Martha has the gift of great composition alongside recognisable, yet original lines otherwise known as great jazz.

You feel that?

Marth Baartz Quintet’s ‘Dream Drops’ is available online now.